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TRANSCRIPT
Sony Corporation
Founded: May 7, 1946
Headquarters: 1-7-1 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo 108-0075, Japan
President and CEO: Kazuo Hirai
EVP and CFO: Kenichiro Yoshida
Major Products
Televisions
LCD televisions
Digital imaging
Interchangeable single-lens cameras, compact digital cameras, video cameras
Audio / Video
Home audio, Blu-ray Disc™ players and recorders, memory-based portable audio devices
Semiconductors
Image sensors and other semiconductors
Electronic components
Batteries, recording media, data recording systems
Professional solutions
Broadcast and professional-use equipment
Medical
Medical-related equipment
Locations of Major Offices and Research Centers (in Japan) : Tokyo, Kanagawa, Miyagi
Consolidated net sales ¥7,767.3 billion (fiscal year ended March 2014)
Stated capital ¥646.7 billion (as of March 31, 2014)
Milestones of some Products & Technologies
Television
1960
TV8-301
World's first direct-view portable transistor TV. Comprised of 23 transistors and 19 diodes, this model was
developed based on Sony's extensive experience in radio technology. In an age when TVs were assumed
to be living room fixtures, this device opened the door to personal television use. Additionally, this model
offered three choices for power input.
1962
TV5-303
Developed with the aim of bringing TV entertainment to the automobile environment, this was the
world's smallest and lightest monochrome TV, which enjoyed wide popularity under the nickname “micro
TV.” The slogan for the device was “Transistors have Changed TV.”
1968
KV-1310
The first in Sony's exclusive line of Trinitron color TVs. This model offered approximately twice the
brightness of TVs using conventional shadow-mask tubes. This was a milestone product establishing
Sony's superiority in color TVs.
1977
KV-1375
Personal TV nicknamed the “Citation.” In addition to its unique and innovative design, this TV
incorporated the Jet Sensor, whereby the user selected channels by gently pressing the control panel
buttons. Incorporating newly developed NBM phosphor, which greatly increased the luminous sensitivity
of cathode-ray tubes, this TV offered unparalleled picture clarity ultimately resulting in this product
becoming a major hit.
1980
KX-27HF1
Advent of the “Profile” series. A monitor with versatile AV output (including video and teletext) was
marketed as a single unit. This TV was developed based on a new modular concept, incorporating a TV
tuner, stereo amplifier and other components.
1986
KX-21HV1
“Profile Pro” color monitor featuring 560 lines of horizontal resolution and abundant input/output
terminals. This model earned the support of those searching for ever-higher television and video picture
quality.
1990
KW-3600HD
Consumer use 36-inch “HD Trinitron” HDTV-compatible color TV.
1991
KV-29ST1
“Kirara Basso” series of color TVs, featuring the “Super Trinitron” cathode-ray tube.
1997
KW-32HDF9
A new WEGA series HDTV incorporating an FD Trinitron tube and offering highly advanced picture
reproduction.
2000
IDT-LF1
First-generation Airboard. The wireless IDT-LF enabled users to view television programming via TV
transmissions (radio waves) “bounced” from the base station.
2002
KLV-17HR1
First-generation liquid crystal WEGA. This model was based on WEGA signal processing technology,
enabling this TV to convert and reproduce NTSC signals while retaining advanced picture quality.
2005
KDL-46X1000
First model in the new BRAVIA series of widescreen LCD TVs. X-series models (shown) feature "Live
Color Creation," utilizing a special backlight system to achieve an incredibly wide color gamut for deeper
colors and full HD resolution panels for crisp, detailed images.
2006
KDS-50A2500
Features Sony SXRD technology to reveal the true cinematic beauty of images. A-series rear projection
TVs unleash the power and impact of cinema, producing a smooth, cinematic-like visual texture and rich
colors. Released September 2005 in the US.
2007
XEL-1
World's first organic light emitting diode (OLED) TV.
The 11-inch OLED TV offers a ground-breaking new design and astonishing slimness (measuring
approximately 3mm). Features Sony's independently-developed OLED panel which realizes advantages
such as high contrast, high peak brightness, color reproduction and rapid response time, all of which
combine to deliver unparalleled image quality.
2008
KDL-32JE1
Featuring the industry's highest level of energy efficiency for a 32-inch digital LCD TV. By enhancing the
efficiency of backlight emission and optical film light transmission, Sony achieved industry-leading
performance in energy efficiency (exceeding Japanese energy conservation standards by 232%), annual
power consumption (at 86 kilowatthours/year) and momentary power consumption (89W).
2009
KDL-ZX5
This ultra-thin BRAVIA LCD HDTV features an advanced edge-lit LED backlight
2010
NSX-46GT1
World's first HDTV powered by Google TV.
KDL-LX900 Series
3D BRAVIA with Full HDTV.
KDL-HX80R Series
BRAVIA LED HDTV with 3D, HDD and Blu-ray recorder.
2011
The HX920 Series
‘Bravia’ Internet TVs equipped with ‘X-Reality PRO’ functionality to offer consumers a new style of viewing
entertainment.
Digital Camera
1981
MAVICA
(prototype)
Played a key role in coverage of the Los Angeles Olympic Games via contracts with newspaper
companies. This model was an early adopter of revolutionary technology featuring a CCD and 2-inch
floppy disk while also enabling the user to conveniently switch lenses.
1988
MVC-C1
The first consumer use Mavica. This model was marketed as an electronic still camera for the TV age.
Incorporated auto-strobe, fast successive shooting, and timer functions, as well as TV screen display
(with the attachment of an optional kit), among a host of other features. This device laid the foundation
for the exciting innovation existing in today's digital cameras.
1996
DSC-F1
The first “Cyber-shot.” The lens and flash were capable of 180-degree rotation, and this model featured a
1.8-inch liquid crystal viewscreen in the back of the body.
1997
MVC-FD5
The product that single-handedly boosted the popularity of the Mavica. This model enabled images to be
saved on 3.5-inch floppy disks (conventional media for PCs at the time). Since images were already in
JPEG format, there was no need for special software to make them PC compatible.
1998
DSC-D700
This camera broke with the tradition of internalized memory to become the first to support Memory Stick
external memory.* True SLR with large optical viewfinder.
*Equipped with a PC Card slot. Recording on Memory Stick is possible using the provided adapter.
1999
DSC-F505K
A model for uncompromising photographers, featuring a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar 5x optical zoom lens on
a rotating cylinder.
2000
DSC-P1
This “P series” model was created through a unique user-friendly approach, and was the first Memory
Stick compatible model. Among other meanings, the letter “P” was meant to connote “Pocket” and “Play.”
2001
DSC-F707
The first model in the Cyber-shot series with an effective pixel count of 5 million. This camera featured
NightShot technology enabling users to shoot without flash even at night.
2002
DSC-U10
The palm-size Cyber-shot. It was so small (weighing a mere 87g) that it could be carried in a handbag or
worn around the neck with the provided strap.
2003
DSC-T1
This new series offered an increased effective pixel count of 5.1 million and featured a slim design with
the thinnest portion measuring only 17.3mm. This camera also featured a larger 2.5-inch liquid crystal
display for high visibility and readability.
DSC-F828
The world's first of its kind*. This was the top-of-the-line model, boasting an effective pixel count of 8.1
million and featuring Sony's original four-color filter CCD. Combined, these features enabled exceptionally
fine, smooth-textured photograph-like quality.
* World's first consumer-use CCD digital still camera (*as of November 2003 based on Sony research).
2004
DSC-M1
Incorporated the “Hybrid REC” feature supporting convenient capture of still shots from video footage.
Pressing the shutter button only once allows the user to shoot a still image in addition to capturing video
five seconds before and three seconds after the shot is taken.
2005
DSC-T7
This slim-type Cyber-shot incorporates newly developed parts and Sony's unique high-density mounting
technologies for a slender, 9.8-mm profile.
DSC-T9
Offers both Super SteadyShot image stabilization and advanced light sensitivity, and features a new 2.5-
inch ClearPhoto plus LCD screen.
DSC-R1
Highest image quality in this series, with a large 10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and wide-angle 24 mm
Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* (T-star) lens.
2006
DSLR-A100
The α (Alpha) digital SLR, with an innovative Alpha Mount lens mount system supporting multiple lenses.
2008
DSLR-A900
Digital single-lens reflex camera "α900." The first α to incorporate a 35mm full frame image sensor and
24.6-megapixel resolution. This α realizes a body weight of only 850g.
DSC-T77
This 10-megapixel T77 camera is world's thinnest---measuring 13.9mm (at its thinnest point). This Cyber-
shot features a 4x optical zoom and optical SteadyShotTM image stabilization. It also features improved
intelligent scene recognition technology, Smile Shutter? and face detection technologies enabling
amateurs to take shots like the pros.
2009
DSC-HX1
This model becomes first digital still camera to feature sweep 224-degree panorama technology. It is also
the company's first Cyber-shot camera to use the G lens and Exmor CMOS sensor technology. This
technology allows it to achieve speeds of 10 frames per second in continuous burst mode.
DSC-WX1
DSC-TX1
These model are the world's first digital still cameras with back-illuminated "Exmor R" CMOS sensor
technology
2010
DSC-TX7
DSC-HX5V
World's first compact digital still cameras with Full HD (1080i AVCHD) video capability.
NEX-5
World's smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital camera*.(*As of May 11, 2010)
SLT-A55V
Interchangeable lens digital camera “α55” featuring the world's first commercialization of translucent
mirror technology to achieve cutting-edge auto focus speed for shooting still images and video.
2011
DSC-WX10、DSC-HX7V、DSC-TX10、DSC-TX100V
‘Cyber-shot’ cameras equipped with 16.2-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensors
* The photo depicts the DSC-TX100V model
SLT-A77V
The ‘Alpha 77’ digital single-lens translucent (SLT) camera has an interchangeable lens and is equipped
with an image sensor with approximately 24.3 effective megapixels. This sensor enables the user to
photograph high definition still images at up to 12 consecutive frames per second, the fastest frame
speed in the world.
* As a digital single-lens camera with interchangeable lens for consumer use; current at the time of the
press release issued on August 24, 2011.
Personal Computer, Laptop and Notebook
1967
ICC-500
“SOBAX” electronic desktop calculator (electronic abacus) was a pioneer among portable electronic
calculators. Its name was derived from the idea that this product was (just like an abacus) able to
perform complex calculations easily and quickly.
1982
SMC-70
Sony's first 8-bit personal computer, featuring the independently developed Sony BASIC computing
language and incorporating a 3.5 floppy drive among other features. Its external numeric keypad and
highly compact design were also considered highly attractive features.
1983
SMC-777
Complete with keyboard, this personal computer was designed for the novice user. Eight software
programs (running on Sony BASIC) were included as part of the package.
HB-55
This model led to the popularization of MSX standard personal computers. The HB-53 was priced around
50,000 yen and was nicknamed the “HIT BIT.”
1986
NWS-830
The UNIX-based “NEWS” workstation for developers. A 16.67-MHz MC68020 served as the CPU, and this
model featured an internal 3.5-inch floppy drive. This workstation was equivalent in size to a personal
computer.
1987
PJ-100
This extremely portable Japanese language word processor with external printer featured a 2-inch data
disk drive. This product was called the “PRODUCE 100.”
1996
PCV-90
This product marked the advent of VAIO and was placed on the US market one year prior to being placed
on the Japanese. It ran on Windows 95 with a Pentium 200-MHz processor. The dedicated “VAIO Space”
on-screen graphic user interface came preinstalled.
1997
PCG-707
The VAIO notebook was introduced in Japan in July 1997 (one year after the US). From the very outset,
the docking station was part of the VAIO notebook package. This model offered superior expandability in
a slim body.
PCV-T700MR
This first VAIO desktop model featured Video CD production software and MPEG-based TV signal
recording while also sporting a CD-R drive.
PCG-505
First-generation VAIO Notebook 505 featured a surprisingly slim magnesium body. Sales of sub-notebook
PCs skyrocketed following the introduction of this model which was lauded for successfully for opening up
new horizons for the sub-notebook market.
1998
PCG-C1
Equipped with a CCD camera, this VAIO C1 mini-notebook took the world by storm. The first-generation
model featured an MMX Pentium 233-MHz processor and a 3.2-GB hard drive.
2000
PCV-MX1V7
First-generation VAIO MX series model with integrated stereo. Featuring a dedicated amplifier and
speakers, this model offered superior sound quality not normally found in personal computers. The MD
slot and decorative liquid crystal on the front were attention-grabbing features.
PCV-LX80/BPK
The liquid-crystal tablet featured a double hinge, enabling the screen to be tilted up to approximately 65
degrees. This device featured a palm rest/keyboard cover in addition to many other innovative features.
PCG-QR1/BP
The translucent black body was enclosed in an aluminum-tone casing. With the attached aluminum
handle, this VAIO was as convenient to carry as a briefcase.
2002
PCG-U1
This was the world's smallest and lightest* PC running Microsoft Windows XP. The computer’s unique
design enabled comfortable operation even while holding with both hands.
(*As of April 1, 2002) 2003
PCG-Z1/P
VAIO Notebook Z, utilizing Intel Centrino mobile technology (designed specifically for mobility), featured
a highly-advanced 14.1-inch SXGA+ LCD display (1,400x1,050). It also offered an extended battery life of
approximately seven hours during standard use.
PCG-X505
“VAIO 505 Extreme,” was the ultimate mobile notebook. Thanks to high-density IC packaging technology
and new exterior materials, this notebook achieved both a lightweight structure and a slim profile, with
the front edge of the body measuring only 9.7mm.
2006
VGC-LA70B
VGC-LB50B
Type L moves beyond conventional notions of "notebook" and "desktop" design to offer customers the
"all-in-one" Type L. Type L is an invitation to a new lifestyle and designed to blend in perfectly wherever
it goes.
VGN-AR70B
Vaio Type A, the world's first Blu-ray disc notebook.*
View and edit HD video in all its full-resolution glory, and then save it to BD.
(*As of May 16, 2006)
VGN-UX90PS
VGN-UX90S
Introducing Vaio Type U, a palm-size PC that uses flash memory instead of a conventional hard disk
drive. At only 492 grams, this model delivers fast memory access, longer operation, and better shock
resistance.
2009
VGN-P70H
This model is small enough to slip into a jacket pocket or handbag while still offering full-PC features
VAIO "W Series"
VAIO W, a new line of the VAIO brand offieing low-priced subnotebook models designed mainly for Web
browsing and e-mailing
2010
VAIO "W Series"
Eco-edition VAIO W series---Part of the chassis featured 80% (Approx.) recycled material.
2011
VAIO "Z Series"
A mobile PC incorporating advanced performance such as accelerated startup and image processing,
coupled with superior ‘mobility.’
Establishment
1946
May
Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo K.K. (Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering Corporation), also known as Totsuko,
established in Nihonbashi, Tokyo with start-up capital of 190,000 yen for the research and manufacture
of telecommunications and measuring equipment.
1947
Jan
Company head office and factory relocated to Shinagawa, Tokyo.
Oct
Successful commercialization and sales launch of Sony's “power megaphone.”
1949
Sep
Completion of first magnetic tape recorder prototype.
1950
Mar
Japan's first magnetite-coated, paper-based recording tape, “Soni-Tape,” launched.
May
Japan's first magnetic tape recorder, the G-Type, order launched.
1954
May
Sendai plant established in Tagajo, near Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. (in April 1992 it was renamed Sendai
Technology Center.)
Jul
Announcement of Japan's first PNP alloy-type transistor and germanium diode.
1955
Feb
Decision made to use SONY logo on Totsuko products.
Aug
Totsuko listed on the OTC (over-the-counter) market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE).
Sep
Japan's first transistor radio, the TR-55, launched.
1958
Jan
Company name changed to Sony Corporation.
Dec
Sony listed on the TSE.
1959
Jun
Formal announcement of research results leading to the negative-resistance “Esaki Diode” prototype.
1960
Feb
Sony Corporation of America (SONAM) established in the United States.
May
World's first direct-view portable TV, the TV8-301, launched.
Nov
Atsugi plant established in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture (renamed Atsugi Technology Center in August
1989).
Dec
Sony Overseas S.A. established near Zurich, Switzerland.
1961
Mar
Japan's first all-transistor amp tape recorder,TC-777, launched.
Jun
Sony became the first Japanese company to offer shares in the United States in the form of American
Depositary Receipts (ADRs) on the OTC market of the New York Stock Exchange.
1962
May
The world's smallest and lightest all-transistor TV, TV5-303, launched.
Nov
Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Ltd. established.
1963
Jul
World's first compact transistor VTR, the PV-100, launched.
1964
Aug
Sales launch of the “Sony-O-Matic” TC-357, a tape recorder featuring automatic recording adjustment.
Sep
Osaki plant established in Shinagawa, Tokyo (renamed Osaki West Technology Center in June 1995).
1965
May
Sales launch of the Chromatron-type 19-inch color TV, 19C-70.
Aug
World's first home-use open-reel VTR, the CV-2000, launched.
Oct
Japan's first all-silicon transistor stereo amplifier, the TA-1120, launched.
1966
Apr
Sony Building in Ginza, Tokyo, opened.
Nov
Sales launch of Sony's first cassette tape recorder, the “Magazine-matic 100” TC-100.
1967
Mar
Sales launch of the world's first IC radio, the ICR-100.
1968
Mar
CBS/Sony Records Inc., a 50-50 joint venture with CBS Inc. of the US, established. It was renamed CBS
Sony Inc. in August 1973 and CBS/Sony Group Inc. in August 1983. It became a wholly-owned Sony
subsidiary in January 1988, and renamed Sony Music Entertainment Inc. in April 1991.
May
Sony (U.K.) Ltd. Established in the United Kingdom (reorganized as Sony United Kingdom Ltd. In April
1993).
Oct
“Trinitron” color TV, the KV-1310, launched.
1969
Sep
Shibaura plant established in Minato, Tokyo (renamed Shibaura Technology Center in August 1989).
Nov
Sony Shiroishi Semiconductor Inc. established to assemble semiconductor products (in Shiroishi, Miyagi
Prefecture).
Dec
Inazawa Plant (currently Inazawa Technology Center) established to produce cathode-ray tubes (in
Inazawa, Aichi Prefecture).
1970
May
Ichinomiya Plant (currently Ichinomiya Technology Center) established to assemble color TVs (in
Ichinomiya, Aichi Prefecture).
Jun
Sony G.m.b.H. established in Cologne, Germany (renamed Sony Deutschland G.m.b.H in June 1980).
Sep
Sony shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
1971
Oct
3/4-inch u-matic color video cassette player, the VP-1100, launched.
1972
Mar
U-matic video cassette recorder, VO-1700, launched.
Aug
Operations commenced at color TV assembly plant in San Diego, California.
Dec
Sony Koda Inc. (currently Koda Technology Center) established to manufacture home-video products (in
Kota-cho, Aichi Prefecture).
1973
Jan
Hispano Sony established in Barcelona, Spain.
Feb
Sony France S.A. established in Paris, France
May
Sony receives the first Emmy ever awarded to a Japanese company for developing the Trinitron color TV
system.
1974
Jun
Operations commenced at color TV assembly plant in Bridgend, Wales, in the U.K.
Aug
Operations commenced at cathode ray tube (CRT) plant in San Diego, the first ever integrated color TV
production facility to be established by a Japanese company overseas.
1975
May
Home-use 1/2-inch “Betamax” VCR, the SL-6300, launched.
1979
Jul
Sales launch of the TPS-L2, the first stereo cassette player “Walkman.”
Aug
Sony Prudential Life Insurance Co. Ltd., a 50-50 joint venture with Prudential Insurance Co. of America,
established. It was renamed Sony Pruco Life Insurance Co. Ltd. in September 1987 and Sony Life
Insurance Co. Ltd. in April 1991.
1980 - 1981
Aug
Technology announcement related to Sony's magnetic video camera based the “Mavica” magnetic
recording standard.
1982
Oct
World's first CD player, the CDP-101, launched.
Nov
Initial delivery to NHK of the “Betacam” BVW-1, a 1/2-inch-tape combined camera/VTR for broadcast use.
1983
Apr
New “division-based” corporate organization model introduced.
1984
Apr
High definition video system (HDVS) launched.
Nov
Portable CD player (later called “Discman”), the D-50, launched.
1985
Jan
8mm camcorder, the CCD-V8, launched.
1986
Nov
Sony Europe G.m.b.H. established in Cologne, Germany. Operations commenced at Sony France audio
and video products assembly and device plant in Colmar, Alsace, France.
1988
Jan
CBS Records Inc., the records group of CBS, acquired. It was renamed Sony Music Entertainment Inc. in
January 1991.
Sep
Launch of the consumer-use still camera, “Mavica” MVC-C1.
1989
Jun
Compact and lightweight passport-sized 8mm camcorder, “Handycam” CCD-TR55, launched.
Nov
Columbia Pictures Entertainment, Inc. acquired. It was renamed Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. in
August 1991.
1990
Dec
Launch of the HD-equipped, 16:9 wide aspect ratio, 36-inch consumer-use television, the KW-3600HD.
1992
Nov
MD system launched.
1993
Jul
World's first continuous-wave room-temperature operation of blue semiconductor lasers successfully
developed.
Nov
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. established.
1994
Apr
New company structure introduced at Sony Corporation.
Jul
World's first high-brightness, green light-emitting diode successfully developed.
1995
Sep
“Digital Handycam”, first consumer-use digital video camcorder DCR-VX1000/DCR-VX700,launched.
Nov
Sony Communication Network Corporation established.
Dec
Basic specifications of new industry format for high-density optical disc finalized, including new format
name, “DVD.”
1996
Oct
Sony China established.
Oct
Sales launch of the digital still camera “Cybershot” DSC-F1.
1997
Apr
Sony Marketing Co., Ltd. Established.
May
Development of “Digital Reality Creation,” technology to create highly-realistic 4x picture resolution based
on standard television signals, using Sony's exclusive digital signal processing algorithm.
Jun
Introduction of Corporate Executive Officer System.
Jul
Home-use PC “VAIO” series launched
Jul
Flat CRT “WEGA” series launched
Oct
Sales launch of the world's first broadcast-use HD camcorder, HDW-700.
1999
May
Sales launch of Super Audio CD players, SCD-1.
Jun
Sales launch of the entertainment robot “AIBO” ERS-110.
2000
Jun
Sony Center am Potsdamer Platz Berlin opened.
Nov
Small Biped Entertainment Robot SDR-3X announced.
Dec
Sales launch of the personal IT television “Airboard” IDT-LF1.
2001
Feb
Sony develops world's largest (13 inch) full color organic EL display.
Apr
Sony Bank established in Japan.
Apr
Sony EMCS established.
Oct
Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications established.
2002
Oct
Sony absorbs AIWA by merger.
Nov
Sales launch of the “CoCoon” channel server CSV-E77.
2003
Apr
Sales launch of the world's first next-generation high capacity optical disc “Blu-ray Disc” recorder BDZ-
S77.
Jun
First “QUALIA” products launched.
Jun
Corporate shift to “committee-based” organizational model.
Oct
“SDR,” a compact bipedal entertainment robot, began activity as Sony group's “corporate ambassador,”
under the new nickname “QRIO.”
2004
Jan
FeliCa Networks, Inc. established.
Apr
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) becomes wholly owned subsidiary via exchange of shares.
Apr
Sony Financial Holdings Inc. established.
May
Sony develops new 4K SXRD high-resolution LCD panel, the industry's first LCD device to meet advanced
digital cinema DCI-recommended specifications of 4K (4906H x 2160V) setting the global standard for
digital cinema projectors.
Aug
Sony BMG Music Entertainment established.
Sep
Development and commercial production of world's first mercury-free button-shaped silver-oxide battery.
Oct
Sales launch of HDR-FX1, the world's first consumer use digital HD video camera recorder conforming to
HDV standard 1080i.
2005
Apr
Consortium, including Sony, completes acquisition of Metro-Goldwyn Mayer (MGM) of the US.
Jul
Sales launch of the “Hi Definition Handycam” HDR-HC1, the world's smallest digital HD video camera
recorder.
Sep
Sales launch of new “BRAVIA” brand HDTV-compatible flat-screen TVs.
Oct
New organizational model introduced, replacing “internal companies” system with one centering on
“business groups.”
Dec
Sony Communication Network Corporation delists as a subsidiary tracking stock. Sony Communication
Network Corporation (renamed So-net Entertainment Corporation in Oct. 2006, So-net Corporation in Jul.
2013) listed on the Mothers Market of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
2006
Jan
World's-first signal-processing circuit technology compatible with "xvYCC" format developed---supporting
a far wider gamut for color reproduction.
Apr
Sony and Samsung reach agreement on manufacturing 8th generation amorphous TFT LCD panels at
their joint venture, S-LCD Corporation.
Jun
World's first Blu-ray Disc drive Notebook PC (VAIO typeA) released.
Jul
Digital SLR camera α100 (DSLR-A100) released.
2007
Feb
Sony relocates headquarters to new building called "Sony City."
Aug
"Bio Battery" which generates electricity from glucose developed.
Sep
Sound Entertainment Player "Rolly" released.
Oct
Sony Financial Holdings lists on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Dec
Sony establishes in-house recycling of flame-retardant polystyrene.
Dec
World's first OLED TV released.
2008
Jan
So-net Entertainment (renamed So-net Corporation in Jul. 2013) lists on the first section of the Tokyo
Stock Exchange.
Jan
Sony develops new close proximity wireless transfer technology "Transfer Jet."
Apr
Sony releases world's smallest full HD " Handycam" HDR-TG1.
Jul
Sony releases new "BRAVIA" JE1 series (KDL-32JE1), featuring industry's highest level of energy
efficiency for 32-inch digital LCD TVs.
Oct
Sony BMG becomes wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America.
Oct
Sony releases digital SLR Camera "α900" with 24.81 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor "Exmor"
2009
Feb
Compact, high-speed, high-accuracy finger vein authentication technology dubbed "mofiria," developed
Feb
HDR-XR520V and HDR-500V Handycam---World's first camcorder with new back-illuminated CMOS image
sensor --- released
Apr
Sony DADC Japan Inc. established
Jul
Sharp and Sony enter into definitive agreement regarding joint venture to produce and sell large-sized
LCD panels and modules
Sep
Sony Group unveils new brand message "make.believe"
Oct
High frame-rate single lens 3D camera technology, developed
Oct
Highly-efficient wireless power-transfer system based on magnetic resonance, developed
Oct
Mercury-free alkaline button battery (LR) that reduces environmental impact, launched
Dec
Sony and FIFA announce agreement for selected media rights for the world's first 3D FIFA World Cup
2010
Jan
Sony opens “Sony 3D Technology Center,” located at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California.
Feb
Sony introduces Cyber-shot™, the world's first digital still camera with full HD progressive video.
Feb
Sony develops world's first millimeter-wave wireless intra-connection technology for internal high speed
data transfer within electronics products.
Jun
As an official partner of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™, Sony hosts "Sony 3D World" events in several
countries where visitors are able to experience Sony's 3D World.
Jun
Sony launches “NEX series”, the world's smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital still camera
series.
Jul
Tohoku University and Sony jointly develop the world's first blue-violet ultrafast pulsed semiconductor
laser with 100 watt output.
Sep
Sony introduces the world's first consumer interchangeable lens HD camcorder Handycam NEX-VG10E.
Oct
Sony commercializes world's first 16.41 megapixel "Exmor R" back-illuminated CMOS image sensor for
mobile phones.
Oct
Sony introduces Sony Internet TV, powered by Google TV —he world's first television with Google TV
platform.
Dec
Sony introduces e-book reader.
Dec
Sony launches new digital music service---"Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™"
Outside Japan
Sony Americas Holding,Inc
Sony Argentina S.A.
Sony Australia Ltd.
Sony Brasil Ltda.
Sony Capital Corporation
Sony Chile Ltda.
Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Limited.
Sony Computer Entertainment Hong Kong Limited
Sony Corp. of America
Sony Corporation of Hong Kong Ltd.
Sony (China) Limited
Sony DADC Austria A.G.
Sony DADC US Inc.
Sony de Mexico S.A. de C.V.
Sony Deutschland G.m.b.H.
Sony Device Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Sony Digital Products (Wuxi) Co., Ltd.
Sony Digital Reading Platform S.A.R.L.
Sony Electronics Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.
Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics Huanan Co., Ltd.
Sony Electronics of Korea Corp.
Sony Electronics (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
Sony Electronics Vietnam Company Limited
Sony Electronics (Wuxi) Co., Ltd.
Sony EMCS (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
Sony Entertainment Inc.
Sony Europe Ltd.
Sony Film Holding Inc.
Sony Global Treasury Services Plc.
Sony Global Treasury Services (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Sony India Pvt. Ltd.
Sony Inter - American, S.A.
Sony International (Hong Kong) Ltd.
Sony Korea Corporation
Sony Latin America Inc.
Sony MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA FZE
Sony Mobile Communications AB
Sony Music Entertainment
Sony Music Holding Inc.
Sony Network Entertainment International LLC
Sony Network Entertainment Europe Limited
Sony of Canada Ltd.
Sony Online Entertainment LLC
Sony Overseas Holdings B.V.
Sony Pictures Animation Inc.
Sony Pictures Cable Ventures Inc.
Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.
Sony Pictures Home Entertainment Inc.
Sony Pictures Releasing Corporation
Sony Pictures Releasing International Corporation
Sony Pictures Television, Inc.
Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions Inc.
Sony Precision Devices (Huizhou) Co., Ltd.
Sony Taiwan Limited.
Sony Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Sony Thai Co., Ltd.
Sony Supply Chain Solutions (China) Ltd.
Sony Supply Chain Solutions (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
Sony U.S. Funding Corporation
Beijing SE Potevio Mobile Communications Company Ltd.
C3D Corp.
Califon Productions, Inc.
CJSC Sony Electronics
Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc.
CPE Holdings, Inc.
CPT Holdings, Inc.
CPⅡ Distribution, Inc.
Culver Digital Distribution Inc.
Gaikai Inc.
Jeopardy Productions, Inc.
Lot, Inc.
Quadra Productions, Inc.
SCEA Trading Latin America LLC
SCEA Trading LLC
Screen Gems, Inc.
Shanghai Suoguang Electronics Co., Ltd.
Shanghai Suoguang Visual Products Co., Ltd.
S-LCD Holding AB
SPE Corporate Services Inc.
Tandem Licensing Corporation
TriStar Pictures, Inc.
TriStar Television, Inc.
Japan
Sony Assurance Inc.
Sony Bank Inc.
Sony Business Solutions Corporation
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Sony DADC Corporation
Sony EMCS Corporation.
Sony Energy Device Corporation.
Sony Enterprise Co., Ltd.
Sony Financial Holdings Inc.
Sony Global Solutions Inc.
Sony Lifecare Inc.
Sony Life Insurance Co., Ltd.
Sony Marketing (Japan) Inc.
Sony Mobile Communications
Sony Music Communications Inc.
Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc.
Sony Music Marketing Inc.
Sony Semiconductor Corporation
Sony Supply Chain Solutions, Inc.
Sony Visual Products Inc.
FeliCa Networks, Inc
Frontage Inc.
So-net Corporation