Written by Lindsay Hochberg

Sony is trying to push its way to the top of the technology sector, which includes industry giants such as Apple and Samsung, with the introduction of its new smartphone, the Xperia Z. The phone hosts new Sony technology, such as improved Cybershot technology, 1080p HD screen with features borrowed from its Bravia TV brand, and believe it or not, it's waterproof! This is the company’s newest effort to help surpass Samsung’s market share by introducing the Xperia Z earlier than Samsung’s debut                                                                                                  of its Galaxy S4.

With this new innovation and depressed market climate, it is possible for Sony to expand its presence and regain its title of industry leader. Experts assert that Sony stock may be a good substitute investment for Apple stock, since there is potential for great upside in this company.  Before the great run of Apple over the last decade, Sony was at the top of the industry. However, in the last ten years its stock has declined 60%. Part of this decline is due to the fact that Sony has a higher cost of production by producing in Japan, since its competitors produce in China and South Korea. Yet, with the introduction of the Sony PlayStation 4 (PS4) and the Xperia Z, Sony is clearly trying to reintroduce itself. Sony’s introduction of the PS4 is earlier than its competitors’ unveiling of their gaming consoles. Perhaps this will give Sony an edge over Microsoft, which is set to introduce its new Xbox720 later this year.

Although there is no set release date for the Xperia Z in the United States, there has been buzz around its recent introduction in Asia. Experts are waiting to see how Xperia Z sales fit it with that of the marginally more expensive iPhone.  Time will tell how successful Sony is as trying to re-climb its way to the top.

Sources: http://www.nbcnews.com/technology/gadgetbox/sony-xperia-z-quad-core-water-resistant-phone-13-mp-1B7876003, http://www.indiatimes.com/technology/mobile/sony-xperia-z-priced-at-rs-38990_-64761.html, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-21479858