After a slow start in 2008, it seems like Sony and the PlayStation brand are charging full steam ahead and seem poised to take on the software companies in 2008.
Many complaints and criticisms have arisen over recent years about how Sony’s software is difficult to use from the consumer’s perspective but the electronics giant hopes to answer back in a big way. Sony’s CEO, Sir Howard Stringer, has been listening and is assuring everyone that both the hardware and software "people" will be working together in all aspects of the company’s future.
One such front in which software meets hardware is the growth of the PlayStation Network and its expansion serving as a potential for the entire brand to grow. One factor that may help it increase at a rapid pace may be the integration of downloadable video content (i.e. movie rentals, purchases, etc.) and being able to fully integrate the PS3 and the home PC into the ultimate home media center. Beside the future of video downloadable content, Sony has already announced Play TV which just bolsters their arsenal of potential for their brand.
"Three years ago, we were not profitable in electronics. Now we are seriously profitable," Stringer said. Doubters may have to hold back on the criticism once Sony’s third fiscal quarter statistics are released and although recent economic trends could put a damper on sales Stringer let everyone know"…it’s too early to be pessimistic."
One side note but could be the most interesting of the entire piece is that apparently Sony will be holding a press conference in two months to discuss changes to the PlayStation 3. No details were released as to what exactly these changes could be but potentially they could make the PS3 more media center-esque? maybe a built in TV tuner? a slimmed down version of the console? Stay tuned for the latest update on the state of the PlayStation 3.