The current top spots amongst smartphone manufacturers are taken up by Samsung and Apple, who combine for the lion's share of the market, making other manufacturers seem like they're arguing over scraps.

Nevertheless, Sony hopes to take over that elusive 3rd position, which, as of December 31st, was occupied by China-based manufacturer Huawei with its 4.9% markeshare. The rankings, provided by market research company IDC, put Sony at 4.5% for the same period, while ZTE, another emerging smartphone manufacturer from China, is next at 4.3%.

So, it's obvious that the race for 3rd place is neck-and-neck, which means that we should see a significant number of affordable devices from Sony, to rival those released by the Chinese for emerging markets.

Here is your one damn reply

Put out a Nexus variant and done!

dont nexus phones usually sell like crap?

No... they sell very well. Have to think only the main Galaxy line probably sells better.

Also depend on the Nexus you're thinking of.

Nexus One was only on one carrier for the longest time and mostly only sold via Google with no subsidy. (HTC made)

Nexus S was only on two carriers with subsidies (Samsung made)

Galaxy Nexus was on every carrier with subsidies (samsung made and sold very well)

Nexus 4 is on all but one carrier(verizon) (LG made and is selling very well too).

Anyone who uses a Nexus will realize how much better the experience is. Plus with the less-than-a-year old move to put Nexus brand in tablets as well, its a brand that is building up the reputation.

Sony won't release a Nexus. It would devalue the Xperia brand.

They just need to make better screens and advertising.

I'm still hoping BB10 does well this year

"Sony wants to be number one Android player in smartphone segment"

at least they are more realistic now.

The Sony skin is not bad at all, don't confuse it with Touchwiz or Sense. It is very light. It is mostly consists of Sony apps and frankly they are much better than Google's offerings.

Xperia Nexus, should sell gangbusters.