The delayed launch of the Sony Xperia Z2 has become a major problem for the Japanese manufacturer. After all, this particular model is expected to take on competitors like the Samsung Galaxy S5 and the HTC One (M8). Early news about the delay had the phone launching in late April/early May. Nearly two weeks later, Sony U.K. was telling retailer Clove not to expect delivery of the handset until May.

But even that time frame might be too optimistic. Sony Hong Kong is now confirming that the flagship phone won't be released until June. This has to be disheartening for those who saw the phone unveiled at MWC in late February and have been patiently waiting for the release of the Xperia Z2. In the U.S., there is speculation that the phone will be a Verizon exclusive with a Q2 launch.

Sony might have boxed itself into a corner. With the Japanese manufacturer releasing a new flagship model every 6 months, by the time the Xperia Z2 sees the light of day, its successor could be due. Remember, Sony Mobile’s Creative Director Kurozumi Yoshiro called the Xperia Z2 Sony's flagship model for the first half of the year. If the delay stretches out any longer, buyers might decide to wait for the Sony Xperia Z3 which would force Sony to take a hatchet to its pricing for the Xperia Z2. Shortages of parts needed for the device are being blamed for the delay.