As the hype and battle over smartphones continues, Sony is joining the bandwagon, as they are also about to release their next flagship device in 2016. It has been reported that the Japan-based company will have two variants for their upcoming crown jewel, Xperia Z6.

SlashGear reported the conglomerate firm is not yet confirming, but already planning to release their bellwether this coming year. It was first speculated that the Xperia Z6 has five different variations, but it was then said to be reduced to just two varieties.

Rumor has it that Sony is opting for two different releases in 2016 for the two Z6 models. One is expected to be the standard model, while the other is not yet sure if will be the Ultra, Mini, Plus or the compact kind.

But, one thing is for sure, the Z6 models will be powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 SoC. Another emerging detail includes its metal design, which is new for Sony handheld devices.

However, SlashGear added that the news about the upcoming device is not yet confirmed, as everyone is still waiting for Sony to affirm the hearsay. It looks like the Z6 will not be included in the upcoming CES event, which will be held in January, but it was also reported that it will be unveiled in June, while the other unit will be in October.

CrossMap noted that the rumored five units include the Xperia Z6 Mini, Xperia Z6 Compact, Xperia Z6, Xperia Z6 Plus and the Xperia Z6 Ultra. The Xperia Z6 lineup has a display size ranging from 4-inches to 6.4-inches, which all run with Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, while the Z6 Mini is said to be powered by Snapdragon 620.

There are also swirling rumors that Sony will be the next smartphone producer to use the Force Touch features on their upcoming handheld units. CrossMap noted that the Xperia Z6 will be waterproof and dust-resistant.

Prices for the upcoming units are not yet disclosed, but it is expected to be around $800, which also depends on the size, storage, hardware and features of the device. 

It has also been said that the two units, the Xperia Z6 and Z6 Plus, will have the same feature of Apple's 3D Touch technology, which is already applied to iPhone 6S and 6S Plus. This automation is used to distinguish the different levels of pressure, like the soft tap to the hard press and "behave differently."

Watch the rumors and leaks of Xperia Z6 by CTN Technology News.