Sony and Ericsson have announced that Sony will buy Ericsson’s 50 per cent stake in the Sony Ericsson, a joint venture that manufactures mobile phones.
Sony says that it will rapidly integrate smartphones into its broad array of network-connected consumer electronics devices – including tablets, televisions and personal computers.
As part of the transaction, Ericsson will receive a cash consideration of EUR 1.05 billion.
Both the companies will also set up a wireless connectivity initiative, through which both the companies work to develop connectivity across multiple platforms.
Howard Stringer, Sony’s chairman, chief executive officer and president said, “This acquisition makes sense for Sony and Ericsson, and it will make the difference for Consumers, who want to connect with content wherever they are, whenever they want. Our four -screen strategy is in place. We can more rapidly and more widely offer consumers smartphones, laptops, tablets and televisions that seamlessly connect with one another and open up new worlds of online entertainment. This includes Sony’s own acclaimed network services, like the PlayStation Network and Sony Entertainment Network.”
Stringer added “We can help people enjoy all our content – from movies to music and games – through our many devices, in a way no one else can.”
While Sony has been using its technology and content in the Sony Ericsson mobile phones earlier as well, through the phones like Walkman series of Music phone, camera technology through cybershot series and more recently it’s gaming prowess though the Xperia Play and other Playstation certified phone. Its Bravia display technology in Xperia series of phones.
However after this acquisition these technologies are expected to be much better integrated. Also the marketing and distribution of phones will also get a boost thanks to Sony’s own distribution strength.
Sony Ericsson held a market share of 11 per cent (by value) in the Android phone market, representing 80 percent of the company’s third quarter sales.