Can Sony’s Waterproof Devices Make a Splash?

While brand loyalty and recognition play a significant role in the purchase of a mobile device, technological specs are also important — you wouldn’t want to buy the slowest tablet in the market, after all. With that idea, Sony (NYSE:SNE) is going a step further and offering some extra special features with two of its newest devices.

Last month, Sony showed off its large-screened, but slim Xperia Z smartphone, which some called the world’s first waterproof phone. (Although I, your humble author, would have to argue that the Sharp Aquos Phone 102sh that I purchased in Japan has been both a smartphone and waterproof for more than a year now.) In any case, needless to say, there aren’t many smartphones that can go in the bath, pool, or shower.

However, a waterproof smartphone isn’t enough for Sony. On Monday, the company also unveiled the Xperia Z tablet, which also boasts waterproofing and dust resistance along with competitive technological specs. The features will surely come at a premium price, but Sony is offering something that not many others can, and that may help it win a section of the market.

Sony doesn’t expect a staggering number of sales with the Xperia Z tablet, but the pair of devices could be significant for the company as it tries to reassert itself in the market. The competition will remain fierce, as Samsung (SSNLF.PK) is preparing to launch its next flagship smartphone model next month and will also launch more models of its Galaxy Note tablet soon.

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