It is hard to convert TV sales into profit, so over the next three years Sony will reduce the number of TV models in its line-up. Instead, Sony wants to focus more on PlayStation consoles and new services.
Fewer TV models
Sony has produced TVs for decades, but ever since flat panel TVs came into the picture Sony has lost money on the TV division almost every quarter. Sony has already reduced the number of TV models in recent years, but apparently that has not been enough.
At a conference, Hiroki Tokoti from Sony made the announcement that over the next three years Sony will make "fewer TVs and smartphones". Sony has previously said that 4K Ultra HD will make its TV division profitable again. Tokoti also said that Sony will stop chasing market share and instead focus on making TVs profitable, even if it requires a 30 percent drop in revenue.
It sounds like Sony could start focusing on a few high-profile, high-end TV models.
From 2015, Sony will start using Android TV in its TVs. Android TV is Google’s new platform built on the concept of apps. It will be also a platform for console-like games for the TV screen. Other than Sony, Sharp and Philips have signed on to use Android TV from 2015.
And more PlayStations
On the other hand, Sony will increase its investments in PlayStation. Sony will bring out more games, but also focus on TV, video and music services. Sony is currently offering the so-called PlayStation Now game streaming service in beta. With PlayStation Now you can play games streamed directly to your TV or tablet – no PlayStation box required.
Sony also recently announced PlayStation Vue, a subscription service for TV channels streamed over the internet. Lastly, Sony is rolling out a 4K movie service that will eventually make it to PlayStation 4, according to reports. Sony hopes to increase PlayStation revenue by 25 percent.
Additionally, the Japanese manufacturer will reduce the number of smartphone models and increase its imaging sensor business, which is supplying several other phone manufacturers - that Sony has failed to compete with - with camera modules.
Sony will unveil the new 2015 TV line-up at CES 2015 this January.
