Sony is expected to launch the next generation of its Xperia XZ series at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2018 later this month. Aside from the regular Sony Xperia XZ2 smartphone, the Japanese mobile company is set to unveil its Compact version as well. Thanks to the leaked prototype image of the Xperia XZ2 Compact, the public now has an idea on what to expect from Sony's flagship device.

The picture of the alleged Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact prototype was posted on Xperia Blog, in which the online followers have noticed that the smartphone has embraced a curved design. The Sony Xperia handsets are known for its angular and blocky edges, and the curved appearance of the Xperia XZ2 Compact prototype could mean that Sony is slowly deviating from its signature design.

A curved Sony Xperia XZ2 design is likely to be welcomed by the public upon its launch, especially that the curved edges would make the handset handier. Although, the prototype image of Xperia XZ2 Compact shows that the 3.5 mm headphone jack will be ditched, which is something that many users would not want to happen. With this, it is possible that the smartphone will rely on USB Type C connection to plug in an earphone.

The Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact prototype leak also reveals that the fingerprint sensor will have a new position. Instead of having the biometric reader below the front display, the fingerprint scanner will be placed at the rear side, or just beside the camera module. 

Previous Sony Xperia XZ2 Compact rumors suggest that the phone will sport a 5-inch display with 18:9 aspect ratio and FHD+ screen resolution. Like the regular-sized Xperia XZ2, the Compact variant could be powered by Qualcomm's latest high-end mobile chipset, the Snapdragon 845. The smartphone will also receive 4 GB of random--access memory (RAM) and 64 GB built-in storage. In terms of the camera department, the Xperia XZ2 Compact will boast a 19 MP rear camera lens and 8 MP front shooter.