Vodafone Axes Sony Ericsson XPERIA X2 UK Launch Plans
The Sony Ericsson XPERIA X2 looks to be scrapped from UK launch, with Vodafone confirming that they have given up on the handset after numerous setbacks.
Despite nabbing exclusivity for the Windows phone late last year, the X2 has been beset with technical glitches that have repeatedly pushed back a release on the Vodafone network, and now has missed its window of opportunity in a very competitive 2010.
A Sony Ericsson spokesman confirmed to Mobile Today that the X2 will no longer be sold by Vodafone in the UK.
His reasons for the delay were apparently “due to extended testing,” stating the X2 “no longer fits within [Vodafone's] planned portfolio.”
The word from the Vodafone camp was less about testing, and more about the X2′s failings:
“The X2 launch date for the pre-Christmas period was significantly delayed due to a series of technical issues, so it no longer fits with our planned portfolio for this quarter.”
The HTC HD2 and XPERIA X2 have both been relegated to the business section of the Vodafone site, could it be that they are clearing the way for the iPhone and the recently announced Google Nexus One as their flagship consumer-friendly smartphones for 2010?
It’s a real shame to see the XPERIA X2 not get an airing in the UK. It was a decent device, but Windows Mobile 6.5 never seemed to manage under the weight of all those impressive, yet demanding, Sony Ericsson customisations.
Let’s hope Android fares better, as Google’s platform is acting as master of ceremonies on the forthcoming XPERIA X10.
Tags: Sony Ericsson, Sony Ericsson XPERIA X2, x2, xperia x2
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