Sony Xperia Ace IV

The Sony Xperia Ace IV was anticipated as a compact budget smartphone for the Japanese market, following the Xperia Ace III, with an expected release in 2023 or 2024. However, based on available information, it appears Sony may have canceled the Xperia Ace IV, as no official release occurred by 2025, and reports suggest Sony scaled back its Xperia lineup due to poor sales. For this review, I’ll provide a speculative overview based on the expected trajectory of the Ace series, assuming a hypothetical release in 2023 with a price around $300. The Xperia Ace IV would likely feature a 5.5-inch HD+ display, Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset, and 5G support, targeting users seeking a small, affordable phone. In 2025, its relevance is limited due to its cancellation and outdated specs compared to newer budget phones like the Xperia Ace III or Samsung Galaxy A15.

The Sony Xperia Ace IV could have been a compelling compact budget phone for the Japanese market, offering 5G support, a small 5.5-inch display, and a durable IP68-rated build for users who prioritize simplicity and portability. However, its cancellation—likely due to poor sales prospects as reported in early 2025—means it never reached consumers, leaving the Xperia Ace III as the last in the series. Even if it had launched, its speculative specs, like the HD+ display and Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, would feel outdated in 2025 compared to newer budget phones like the Samsung Galaxy A15 or even the Xperia 10 VI, which offer better displays and performance for a similar price. The Ace series’ focus on Japan also limits its global appeal. For those seeking a compact Sony phone, the Xperia 10 VI is a better alternative, while budget buyers outside Japan are better off with more widely available options from Samsung or Motorola.