Sony Corporation - ThaiEEIeiu.thaieei.com/box/InterCompany/2/SONY.pdf · 2016-08-02 · Sony's first 8-bit personal computer, featuring the independently developed Sony BASIC computing

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