Sony Ericsson 'to make fewer phones'

Sony Ericsson has admitted that one of the reasons for its global slide is overloading the market with handsets, and will be bringing a smaller portfolio next year.

Speaking to TechRadar, Dave Hilton, marketing director for Sony Ericsson UK and Ireland, said the next step was going to be concentrating on setting up a smaller portfolio while maintaining the innovation he believed had been showcased by the release of the Satio, Yari and Aino.

"The next year will see a smaller number of handsets on our portfolio. That means fewer products, which in turn helps lower costs but still means we can offer new and innovative propositions to help maintain our strong market share."

PSP phone

Hilton also highlighted why there has been a move away from the Walkman and Cybershot sub-brands, and more crucially, why a PSP phone isn't high on the agenda for Sony Ericsson.

"We've brought a better gaming experience to mobiles, and [I don't think] we need the PlayStation brand for that.

"It's something we're looking to step away from today [using sub-brands] as when you're looking at the higher end of the market consumers want it all: good gaming, video, music etc. With a sub brand, you're kind of putting a limit [on the phone].

"[The PlayStation brand] is a slightly different example, the question is more how we can bring the PlayStation experience to phones, so I'd rather never say never [over a PSP] phone.

"The Walkman and Cybershot brands will continue, and there's clearly ongoing development there, but it will be used in mid- to lower-end phones, simpler handsets, and they'll be placed lower in the Sony Ericsson portfolio."