International version of Sony Xperia Z1f to be unveiled on January 3rd?

Earlier today, we told you how strong sales have been in Japan for the Sony Xperia Z1f, the mini version of the flagship Sony Xperia Z1. The newly launched model is on the top of the country's smartphone sales charts, outselling the Apple iPhone 5s  Sporting the same Snapdragon 800 chip and 20.7MP rear-facing camera as used on the Xperia Z1, the only differences between the two models is the smaller 4.3 inch screen, the lower 720 x 1280 resolution, and the reduced capacity battery. But the latter isn't a problem as tests have shown the Xperia Z1f outlasting its bigger brother.

With the success of the model in Japan comes word that the international version of the phone will soon be introduced. With speculation that the phone would be unveiled during the Chinese New Year Festival early next month, Sony's web site in China shows some event scheduled for January 3rd. Perhaps this will be the date that the phone is unwrapped. Other sources in the country report that the model has a code name of "i3" and will have a price tag of 4099 Yuan ($675).

Before those in the states get too excited, we have yet to see the U.S. launch of the full-sized Sony Xperia Z1. Back in October, a picture of a T-Mobile branded version of the phone was tweeted by evleaks. Considering that the carrier already offers the Sony Xperia Z, it would seem to make sense to expect the sequel to that unit end up with the same stateside operator.


Thanks, Anonymous Tipster!

source: Sony via GforGames