Sony Xperia 1 VIII and Xperia 10 VIII Appear on IMEI Database, Launch Expected in Japan, Europe and Asia

Sony's next Xperia phones just leaked – and you might want to wait for  these two - PhoneArena

Sony is reportedly preparing to refresh its smartphone portfolio with a new generation of Xperia devices. Industry sources indicate that the company is developing two key models, expected to be called the Sony Xperia 1 VIII and Sony Xperia 10 VIII. These smartphones represent the next step in Sony’s mobile strategy and are likely to target both premium and mid-range segments. Recent online listings suggest that the official announcement could happen sooner than anticipated.

The upcoming Xperia models have been spotted on the IMEI certification database, a platform that often reveals devices before their public debut. The listings include two model numbers, XQ-GE44 and XQ-GH44, which are believed to correspond to the new Xperia 1 VIII and Xperia 10 VIII respectively. Technology website S-Max first highlighted these findings, pointing out that such appearances usually signal an imminent global launch. Although the database does not provide technical details, it strongly confirms that the devices are in active development.

According to early rumors, the Xperia 1 VIII is expected to be positioned as a high-end flagship smartphone. It may be powered by the advanced Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, which would ensure top-tier performance and enhanced capabilities. On the other hand, the Xperia 10 VIII is likely to serve as a more affordable alternative, aimed at users looking for solid performance in a mid-range package. This combination would allow Sony to compete across multiple price categories in the smartphone market.

The certification information also hints at the regions where these smartphones will be released. The different PM codes associated with the models suggest availability in Japan, Europe, and several Asian markets. While Sony has not officially confirmed any specifications or launch dates, the appearance of these devices in official records indicates that an announcement could be just around the corner. Fans of the Xperia series can expect more concrete information to emerge in the near future.

US space stocks rise after SpaceX merges with xAI at $1.25 trillion valuation

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Shares of listed space companies rallied following the announcement. Rocket Lab, Planet Labs, AST SpaceMobile, Intuitive Machines and Redwire all posted gains, reflecting growing optimism that space-based infrastructure could play a central role in the next phase of AI development. Musk has said that within two to three years, generating AI computing power in space could become more cost-effective than on Earth, thanks to near-constant solar energy and reduced cooling constraints.

The merger brings together rocket launches, satellite networks, AI software and communications platforms under one umbrella, forming what Musk described as a vertically integrated innovation powerhouse. Analysts said the move strengthens SpaceX’s positioning ahead of a potential public offering later this year, which could value the company above $1.5 trillion. The announcement has also fueled expectations of increased investment in space technology, driven by both government defense spending and private-sector demand for AI-related infrastructure.

PayPal shares sink after CEO exit and weak 2026 profit outlook

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PayPal said Chief Financial Officer Jamie Miller will serve as interim CEO until Lores takes over on March 1. The abrupt leadership change came alongside a forecast that adjusted profit next year could range from a slight decline to modest growth, well below Wall Street expectations. Analysts said the combination of a sudden CEO exit and a muted outlook suggests deeper challenges in reviving growth.

The company continues to face pressure from slowing retail spending and intensifying competition from Big Tech and newer fintech rivals. PayPal also reported quarterly revenue and profit below estimates, while growth in its higher-margin branded checkout business slowed sharply, adding to concerns about its core payments franchise.