Sony (official website) is one of the most well-known electronics companies in the world. The company, which began in Japan, has risen from modest beginnings to become a global behemoth. Sony’s legacy of creativity has kept the brand profitable for more than 60 years, from the cassette player and Walkman to the OLED TV to the newest noise-canceling headphones in the market. This is Sony.
FAQ
How does Sony noise-canceling headphones work?
Link the headphones to the audio source unit using the provided cable or a Bluetooth® link after turning them on. If the cable is attached, the headphones would not create a Bluetooth link. The ANC will be immediately turned on.
With built-in microphones, the noise-canceling circuit detects outside noise and gives an equal-but-opposite canceling signal to the headset. Your headphones block a significant portion of external sound sources by creating this countersignal.
Is the Sony WH-1000XM3 worth it?
A $349 gadget can seem to be overly priced, but it isn’t when you remember what you get in return. A decent pair of active noise-canceling headphones are worth their weight in cash, and the Sony WH-1000XM3 is one of the best.
What is better than Sony WH-1000XM3?
There are a few new features on the Sony WH-1000XM4 that you won’t find on the previous generation WH-1000XM3 or WH-1000XM2. Sony has improved the noise-canceling algorithm and now provides a new Bluetooth SoC that blocks further noise in the mid-range and higher frequencies (read about why we need less noise on silencewiki.com).
Is Sony better than Sennheiser?
Sony stresses extra bass and peaks in the MDR range of headphones, which are targeted at the lower end of the market. The HIGH-RES headphones stand out in terms of overall consistency as the selection grows. Their noise cancellation series is designed for those who choose to focus less on mechanical details while purchasing equipment and instead enjoy music with cutting-edge features.
Sennheiser is a household name, and nothing compares to its quality assurance and likeability. It’s extremely doubtful that this brand will be questioned in any way. The creativity that goes into making and of their goods is apparent in the vibrations in your ears. Ultimately, the comparison lies in their different functions and features.
Sony Noise-Canceling Headphones
When Sony’s first true wireless earbuds, the WF-1000X, were released in 2017, they didn’t stand out from the crowd. They suffered from some of the usual flaws of first-generation earbuds with no cable between them, and the noise cancellation promised fell short of Sony’s iconic 1000X headphone range. But, sony is back with this slew of new noise-canceling headphones.
105dB / mW (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 101dB / mW (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Cord Type
Single-sided (detachable)
Cord Length
Headphone cable (approx. 1.2m, OFC strands, gold-plated stereo mini plug)
Plug
Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug
Wearing Style
Circumaural
NFC
Yes
DSEE Extreme
Yes
Passive Operation
Yes
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Cancelling Over-the-Ear Headphones are the perfect headphone for anyone looking to have an experience like no other. Get undisrupted sound with industry-leading noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor technology, and immerse yourself in music using next-level audio features. With up to 30 hours of battery life, you’ll never need to worry about conserving power or going back for a charge until long after most headphones would die out. Even when your battery does start to dwindle, it only takes 10 minutes of charging time for 5 hours worth of playtime – especially convenient if those long airplane rides just seem too taxing on your ears these days!
The auto enhancing features of these award-winning over-the-ear headphones are what make them the perfect investment. Whilst any daydreamer can appreciate their superior sound that has been made even better by Edge AI. Sony Music Studios Tokyo has ensured they deliver not only your wireless needs but also the quality in audio so you won’t be solely focused on everything happening around you.
These noise-canceling over-ear headphones are designed with the intelligence of dual sensors and best sound abilities thanks to engineering oscillation expertise from Sony Soundlabs Entertainment Technology Division and with preciseness voice pickup which allows our engineers to ensure that these phones will perform beautifully both domestically as well as internationally. Check price on dell.com, bhphotovideo.com
2. WH-1000XM3 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
WH-1000XM3 Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, dynamic
Driver Unit
40mm, dome type (CCAW Voice coil)
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
47 ohm (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 16 ohm (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
104.5dB / mW (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 101dB / mW (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Volume Control
Touch Sensor
Cord Type
Single-sided (detachable)
Cord Length
Headphone cable (approx. 1.2m, OFC strands, gold-plated stereo mini plug)
Plug
Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini plug
Input(s)
Stereo Mini Jack
Wearing Style
Circumaural
NFC
Yes
DSEE Extreme
Yes
Passive Operation
Yes
The wonderful-sounding is what you’ll get with the Sony WH-1000XM3 is 20% thinner and more convenient than its predecessor. It has a long battery life of 27 hours, and other useful extra features for frequent travelers – this is the headphone for your active lifestyle.
The Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones are designed to cancel out noise so you can focus on what matters most. Their Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) feature does an excellent job of blocking out ambient noise, particularly when music is playing in the background. With HD Noise-Canceling Processor QN1, automatically adjusting ambient sound based on your activity, and high-quality audio with DSEE HX™ and LDAC, the Sony WH-1000XM3 is a must-have for uncompromising listeners.
Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless noise-canceling headphones are engineered to deliver the same immersive sound across any type of media. Get outstanding audio performance from high-resolution audio, while improving downtime thanks to high-quality ambient sounds and powerful bass. The intuitive Smart Listening features make it easy for you to tailor the music or noise cancellation settings just how you want them. With a sleek design that is designed with comfort in mind, these Sony WH-1000XM3 Headphones come with everything you need in order to take your listening experience to an entirely new level!
3. WH-H910N h.ear on 3 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
The WH-H910N is Sony’s newest noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones that have been crafted for the perfect listening experience. They are capable of high resolution (Hi-Res) audio playback, just in case you were wondering, and are designed with a thoughtfully balanced dashboard to give you an immersive sound field anywhere you go.
The ability to select between three different modes means that your comfort can be taken into account; so while one person may want nothing but overwhelming silence, another could want something more along the lines of normal life as heard through their earphones – these allow both things.
Each piece is also fitted with adaptive noise cancellation technology which follows industry standards (and delivers like its voice) in order to create a wonderfully comfortable atmosphere.
The Sony WH-H910N h.ear on 3 portable noise-canceling headphones was engineered to provide a Hi-Res audio experience with an industry-standard active noise cancellation system. For a better listening experience, it has audio replay and dual noise cancellation mics. In terms of efficiency, it is equivalent to 1000XM3s, and it represents excellent value for money.
4. WH-H900N h.ear on 2 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
WH-H900N Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, dynamic
Driver Unit
40mm, dome type (CCAW Voice Coil)
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
32 ohm (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 16 ohm (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
103dB / mW (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 98dB / mW (1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Wearing Style
Circumaural
NFC
Yes
DSEE Extreme
Yes
Charge Time
Approx. 6 hrs
Bluetooth® version
Version4.1
Effective Range
Line of sight approx.30ft (10m)
Frequency Range
2.4GHz band
Profile
A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP
Supported Audio Format(s)
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC
Supported Content Protection
SCMS-T
The WH-H910N is built to capitalize on the benefits of wireless connectivity and features Bluetooth 5.0 for crisp audio quality, giving your devices a modern power boost while maintaining strong connections in a wide range of environments. Stunning ear pads that create an immersive listening experience and noise-canceling technology for including in any environment make this pair more than up to snuff – and you can’t beat the battery life, which maxes out at 35 hours without skipping a beat!
For mixed-use, these are above-average headphones. The Sony WH-H900N h.ear on 2 headphones have a great, well-balanced sound and a solid build quality. They’re also lightweight, wireless, and noise-canceling. So, they’re a better-than-average choice for the majority of cases.
5. WH-XB900N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
WH-XB900N Specifications
Headphone Type
Dynamic
Driver Unit
40mm
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
50 ohm (1 kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 25 ohm (1 kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
101 dB/mW (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 103dB/mW(when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Volume Control
Touch sensor
Cord Type
Single-sided (detachable)
Cord Length
Approx. 1.2m (supplied headphone cable)
Plug
L-shaped stereo mini plug (supplied headphone cable)
Wearing Style
Over-Ear
NFC
Yes
DSEE Extreme
Yes
Passive Operation
Yes
Bluetooth® version
Version 4.2
Effective Range
Line of sight approx.30ft (10m)
Frequency Range
2.4GHz band (2.4000GHz-2.4835GHz)
Profile
A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP
Supported Audio Format(s)
SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC
Supported Content Protection
SCMS-T
The WH-XB900N Wireless Over-ear Noise Canceling EXTRA BASS™ Headphones are perfect for music lovers who love their bass. These wireless over-ear headphones come with 30-hour battery life so you can enjoy your favorite tunes on the go without any worries of running out of juice!
Noise-canceling technology and touch controls allow you to control everything from your volume to answering phone calls without ever having to touch your phone again. Quick Attention Mode allows you to have hassle-free conversations. Slip-on the WH-WH900N h.ear On 2 Wireless Headphones and you can be in your own little haven of tranquility. The noise-canceling technology, Comfortable Open ear Cushions (OCEANS), and collapsible headband will do wonders for carrying away all those ambient noises.
Your music sounds better than ever thanks to a unique Sony algorithm that upscales compressed music to near high-resolution sound quality with DSEE HX Upscale Technology. Just close your eyes and let the Digital Noise Cancelling take care of the rest with its Ambient Sound mode! Check price on dell.com, bhphotovideo.com
6. WH-CH700N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
WH-CH700N Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, Dynamic
Driver Unit
40mm, Dome
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
22ohm (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 48ohm (at 1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Frequency Response (Active Operation)
7 Hz–20,000 Hz
Frequency Response(Bluetooth® Communication)
20Hz – 20,000Hz (44.1kHz Sampling)
Sensitivities (dB/mW)
97 dB/mW (at 1 kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on), 98 dB/mW (at 1 kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Volume Control
Yes
Cord Type
Detachable Single-sided type
Cord Length
Approx. 1.2m (supplied headphone cable)
Plug
L-shaped stereo mini plug (supplied headphone cable)
Input(s)
USB (Micro) , Stereo Mini Jack
Wearing Style
Circumaural
NFC
Yes
DSEE Extreme
Yes
Passive Operation
Yes
Bluetooth® version
Version4.1
Effective Range
Line of sight approx.30ft (10m)
Frequency Range
2.4GHz band
Profile
A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP
Supported Audio Format(s)
SBC,AAC,aptX, aptX HD
Supported Content Protection
SCMS-T
The WH-CH700N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones are customizable headphones that let you decide how much noise you want to hear. The sleek black design will pair with any outfit and the AI-powered NC button has a unique tuning courtesy of NextGen AI Tech which blocks out distracting background noise for a better music experience. Voice assistant: Alexa enabled, so it can play your favorite songs or remind you about that appointment tomorrow. And if that is not enough, they come with up to 35 hours of wireless playback on one charge!
You can rest up to 13 hours on a single recharge with these comfortable but stylish over-the-ear headphones. And now you will never miss a call with an easy-in-built microphone and a cordless range of 33ft. WH-CH700N comes with every adapter necessary, including an audio cable and USB charging cord – so you have nothing else left to do but enjoy your music or take calls hands-free! Check price on dell.com, bhphotovideo.com
7. WH-CH710N Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
WH-CH710N Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, Dynamic
Driver Unit
30mm, Dome
Impedance (OHM)
72ohm (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 33ohm (at 1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Frequency Response
7 Hz – 20,000 Hz (JEITA)
Frequency Response (Active Operation)
20Hz-20,000Hz (POWER ON) (Wired)
Frequency Response(Bluetooth® Communication)
20Hz – 20,000Hz (44.1kHz Sampling)
Sensitivities (dB/mW)
94dB / mW (at 1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned on) , 100dB / mW (at 1kHz) (when connecting via the headphone cable with the unit turned off)
Volume Control
Yes
Cord Type
Detachable Single-sided type
Cord Length
Approx. 1.2m (supplied headphone cable)
Plug
L-shaped stereo mini plug (supplied headphone cable)
Input(s)
Stereo Mini Jack
Battery Life
Max 35hrs (BT NC)
NFC
Yes
DSEE Extreme
Yes
Passive Operation
Yes
Bluetooth® version
Version5.0
Effective Range
Line of sight approx.30ft (10m)
Frequency Range
2.4GHz band (2.4000GHz-2.4835GHz)
Profile
A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP
Supported Audio Format(s)
AAC, SBC
Supported Content Protection
SCMS-T
The WH-CH710N wireless noise-canceling headphones allow you to cancel out unwanted disturbances with dual noise sensor technology and offer crystal clear sound from the 30mm Driver Units. With up to 35 hours of battery life on a single charge plus quick charging, these lightweight yet durable headphones are perfect for long trips or spontaneous listening. Stay connected without any lines tethering you down.
Thanks to the Bluetooth® streaming with NFC™ One Touch that lets you sync effortlessly with your smartphone there’s no need to worry about cords getting tangled up in your pocket or purse. And since some activities require both hands-free, these phones have integrated voice assistants like Siri®, Cortana®, and Google Assistant™ for calls and even taking photos!
The Sony WH-CH710N is appropriate for a number of applications. They have a comfortable fit and a long battery life, making them ideal for long listening sessions. Their bass-heavy sound profile gives your favorite music an additional thump and impact. Check price on dell.com, bhphotovideo.com
Sony’s 700s are the perfect mix of style, affordability, and comfort. These headphones provide a full-range soundscape with deep bass while feeling light and comfortable enough to wear for hours on end without any fatigue or discomfort. Bluetooth technology means you can listen wirelessly from up to 33 feet away or with your favorite device (aptX compatible) at home too!
Plus these wireless cans have an open headband which makes them ideal for working out in as well since they won’t get tangled around your neck as other wired models might do – just don’t worry about taking off this stylish design because it looks great both when sitting behind a desk all day long OR working out in the gym.
9. MDR-ZX110NC Noise-Canceling Headphones
MDR-ZX110NC Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, dynamic (circumaural)
Driver Unit
30 mm dynamic – Dome type
Magnet
Neodymium
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
Power ON 220 ohm, OFF 45 ohm (at 1kHz)
Frequency Response
10–22,000Hz
Sensitivities (dB/mW)
115 dB/mW – Power on 110 dB/mW – Power off
Cord Length
1.2 m
Plug
Gold-plated L-shaped stereo mini
Wearing Style
Headband, On-ear
Weight
150 g (including battery and excluding cable)
What’s In The Box
Plug adaptor for in-flight use Operating instructions
These Sony ZX110NC Noise-Canceling Headphones are the definition of incredible. Filled with innovative features, such as 80 hours of battery life and a Y-shaped cord to help keep you connected while on the go, this product is perfect for music enthusiasts who want to keep listening without interruption.
Available in both black and pink, these headphones will look great no matter what color scheme you have! With built-in noise cancellation technology that eliminates ambient sound like honking cars or people talking, these headphones are light enough to take anywhere – making them an excellent choice for your next concert adventure. They’re comfortable too – thanks in large part to high-quality ear pads that easily fit most ears. Give yourself peace when you need it most! Check price on dell.com
10. MDR-Z1R Premium Headphones
MDR-Z1R Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, dynamic (circumaural)
Driver Unit
2.76″, dome type (CCAW Voice Coil)
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
64 Ω at 1 kHz
Frequency Response
4 Hz–120,000 Hz
Sensitivities (dB/mW)
100 dB/mW
Cord Type
Detachable Y-type
Cord Length
Headphone cable (approx. 9.84 ft (3 m), silver-coated OFC strands, gold-plated stereo mini plug), balanced connection headphone cable (approx. 3.94 ft (1.2 m), silver-coated OFC strands, L-shaped gold-plated balanced standard plug)
Plug
Headphone cable (Gold-plated stereo mini plug), Balanced-connection headphone cable (L-shaped gold-plated balanced standard plug)
Wearing Style
Circumaural
Weight
Approx. 14 oz (385 g) without cable
What’s In The Box
Unimatch Plug Adaptor (Gold-plated),
Headphone cable (approx. 9.84 ft, silver-coated OFC strands, Gold-plated stereo mini-plug), Balanced-connection headphone cable (approx. 3.94 ft silver-coated OFC strands, L-shaped gold plated balanced standard plug), Hard Case
These headphones are designed to have the same sense of space as open-back headphones while also improving isolation. Sony used a Japanese papermaking technique to produce an acoustic filter that dampens the sound and eliminates resonance in the housing.
When you listen to the sound, you would be shocked at how free it is of different interferences and disruptions. The MDR-Z1R model’s body also takes control of the audio output of the headphones. It is exactly the key framework that increases the efficiency of reproduction by “protecting” the listener from external interference.
The Sony MDR-Z1R Headphones are ideal for the perfectionist that demands nothing less than perfect. Enjoy crystal clear highs and thundering lows with these comfortable, lightweight headphones that offer an open-back design allowing a soothing ambient sound to filter through. Thanks to silver-coated cables you’ll be able to enjoy your music without pesky tangles or knots and with all the attention to detail, we expect from Sony this product promises durability as well. Truly worthy of the name “Z” in MDR-Z1R.
11. MDR-Z7M2 Headphones
MDR-Z7M2 Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, dynamic (circum-aural)
Driver Unit
70 mm, dome type (CCAW Voice Coil)
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
56 ohms at 1 kHz
Diaphragm
Aluminum-coated LCP diaphragm
Frequency Response
4 Hz – 100,000 Hz
Sensitivities (dB/mW)
98 dB / mW
Cord Type
Detachable Y-type
Cord Length
Headphone cable (Approx. 3 m (118 1 / 8 in) , silver-coated OFC strands, Gold-plated stereo mini plug) , Balanced-connection Headphone cable (Approx. 1.2 m (47 1 / 4 in) , silvercoated OFC strands, L-shaped gold plated balanced standard plug)
Plug
Headphone cable (Gold-plated stereo mini plug) , Balanced-connection headphone cable (L-shaped gold plated balanced standard plug)
Sony’s premium headphones are of exceptional quality, and the MDR-Z7M2 is no different. The headband slider and yoke assembly, on which the earcups hang, is now made entirely of aluminum, which may reassure those who have had reservations about the plastic mechanism used on other Sony headphones breaking.
Bring your music to life with the evocative Sony MDR-Z7M2 Premium Hi-Res Headphones. With a whopping 12 hours of battery life, these Bluetooth headphones deliver superior sound quality to really immerse you in your listening experience.
Equipped with 2.76 inch HD driver units and aluminum-coated liquid crystal polymer diaphragms, Sony MDR-Z7M2 Premium Hi-Res Headphones give you the high-resolution audio playback for amazing realism and detail when you’re streaming music from apps like Spotify or Apple Music. The 0.17 balanced cables and silver-coated oxygen-free copper cables provide unrivaled sound transfer while the ergonomic earpads create an unparalleled comfort every time you put them on.
12. MDR-1AM2 Headphones
MDR-1AM2 Specifications
Headphone Type
Closed, dynamic
Driver Unit
1.57 in (Dome Type)
Magnet
Neodymium
Impedance (OHM)
16 Ω
Diaphragm
Aluminum-Coated LCP
Frequency Response
3–100,000 Hz
Sensitivities (dB/mW)
98 dB / mW
Cord Type
Detachable/Silver-coated OFC
Cord Length
47-1/4″
Plug
Gold-plated L-shaped Stereo Mini
Wearing Style
Circumaural
Weight
6.60 oz
The Sony MDR-1AM2 is a premium headphone with quality sound that is lightweight and has a sturdy construction. Equal parts placement and depth produce a good sense of soundstage, and the 1AM2 excels at both. This soundstage has a certain vigor to it, pushing towards your ears and pulling your brain out into the music. However, the intoxicating amount of detail and soundstage are way above what you’d anticipate from a headphone at this price.
MDR-1AM2 Premium Hi-Res Headphones are perfect for fans of high res audio, who want stylish headphones with incredible sound and comfort. There’s no need to compromise on performance or style when you use the MDR-1AM2 headphones. It features a smart remote control with smartphone compatibility so you can take calls without interrupting your music streaming. Enjoy immersive bass from these lightweight headphones that swivel as well!
Sony: History
1. Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo: The Birth of Sony
Sony was founded in the aftermath of World War II when Masaru Ibuka (more info about Masaru Ibuka on pbs.org) opened an appliance store in a Tokyo department store building in 1946. The company had a total of eight employees and $530 in the capital in the beginning. The following year, he was accompanied by a colleague, Akio Morita (read about Akio Morita on britannica.com), and together they formed Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo (Tokyo Telecommunications Engineering Corporation).
The Type-G, Japan’s first tape recorder, was created by Tokyo Tsushin Kogyo initially, which birthed the subsequent ingenious devices. The name of the corporation was later on changed to Sony in 1958. This is when Sony became global.
2. Globalization
Sony opened its first branch in the United States in 1960. Sony opened a branch in the United Kingdom eight years later. In the 1970s, the business began to flourish, expanding into Spain and France in 1973. The German operations began in 1986.
Furthermore, during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, Sony was a key player in the growth of Japan as a strong exporter. It also helped to change American perceptions of “made in Japan” products dramatically. Sony was able to charge above-market prices for its consumer electronics due to its high output efficiency, and it refused to lower prices.
3. Sony’s Signature Products
Sony has a long tradition of bringing new innovations to market. The TR-55, Japan’s first transistor radio, was unveiled by Sony in 1955. The company soon followed up with the introduction of a pocket-sized transistor radio. The TV8-301, the world’s first direct-view portable TV, was launched by Sony in 1960. The company managed to improve the TV and made the tiniest all-transistor TV in two years.
Sony introduced the Handycam, a portable, easy-to-use 8 mm camcorder, in 1989. The corporation introduced the world’s first Blu-ray disc player in 2003. The Handycam was improved to the High Definition Handycam in 2005, making it the world’s smallest video camera.
Video Review: History Of Sony – Retro corporate film
To know more, in this section, we will introduce you to Sony’s life-changing innovation throughout the century.
Sony: The Innovation
Source: Gizmodo
1950 (Type-H)
The Type-G, Japan’s first tape recorder, was built by the company in 1950. A year later, in 1951, the company launched the Type-H, the first consumer-use tape recorder.
1975 (Betamax)
The Betamax videocassette recording format was released by the company in 1975. It was a part of the videotape format battle of the early 1980s, which pitted Sony’s Betamax system against JVC’s VHS format.
1979 (Walkman)
The Walkman, first launched in 1979, was perhaps Sony’s most successful product. The compact, lightweight portable cassette player changed the way people listened to music by making it an independent and personal experience rather than a communal one.
1983 (Compact Disc)
Sony released the Compact Disc to the world in 1983. (CD). Around the same time, it introduced 3.5-inch floppy disks to replace the 5.25-inch floppy disks that were also in use at the time. Sony was a huge hit in this, and the format dominated until floppy disks were phased out in favor of new media formats.
1984 (Discman)
Sony introduced the Discman series in 1984, expanding the Walkman brand to include compact CD players.
1985 (Handycam and Video8)
Sony introduced its Handycam cameras and the Video8 format in 1985.
1987 (Digital Audio Tape)
Sony released the 4 mm DAT (Digital Audio Tape) as a new digital audio format in 1987.
1998 (Memory Stick)
Sony released the Memory Stick format, which is a type of flash memory card that can be used in Sony digital cameras and portable music players, in 1998. Although that has seen little popularity or support outside of Sony’s own products, the Memory Stick Duo and Memory Stick Micro have seen improvements.
Video Review: How Sony’s Walkman Changed The History Of Music Forever
Sony: Content and Media
Sony’s Sony Music and Sony Pictures divisions are also significant players in the music and film industries. In 1968, Sony Music formed a joint venture with CBS, but in 1988, it became a subsidiary of Sony. Here’s a closer detail on Sony’s journey in dominating content and media.
1989 (Columbia Pictures)
Columbia Pictures was acquired by Ohga in 1989. Norio Ohga was appointed CEO of the group the same year. In the 1970s and 1980s, he pushed for the invention of the Compact Disc (CD), as well as the PlayStation in the early 1990s.
1991 (Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment)
On August 7th, 1991, Sony Pictures Entertainment was formed after a number of mergers and friendly takeovers. With a 12.5 percent box office market share in 2011, the group is ranked third among movie studios. Sony also launched its music division, Sony Music Entertainment, in the same year.
1993 (Sony Computer Entertainment)
Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) was founded on November 16th, 1993 in Tokyo, Japan. It is the business behind the PlayStation game consoles, which resulted from a failed partnership with Nintendo.
1995 (ATV Music Publishing)
In 1995, Sony bought a 50% stake in ATV Music Publishing, the world’s second-largest music publishing group at the time. Particularly, the company retains a large portion of the printing rights of The Beatles’ catalog.
2004 (Sony BMG)
Sony and Bertelsmann AG formed Sony BMG in 2004 when Sony Music Entertainment and Bertelsmann AG merged to become Sony BMG.
Sony: Gaming
Enemies Since the disastrous failure of early pioneers such as Atari, Nintendo, and Sega revived the game console industry in the late 1980s. Sony created a new division called Sony Computer Entertainment in 1993 to penetrate this market niche, recognizing the opportunity for a new challenger with deep pockets and superior technical skills.
1994 (PlayStation)
Sony Computer Entertainment released the first PlayStation in 1994.
2000 (PlayStation2)
The PlayStation 3 was launched by Sony Computer Entertainment in 2006. The Blu-Ray disk format was introduced for the first time on this console.
2006 (PlayStation3)
The PlayStation 3 was launched by Sony Computer Entertainment in 2006. The Blu-Ray disk format was introduced for the first time on this console.
2013 (PlayStation4)
The PlayStation 4 was released in North America on November 15th, 2013, by Sony Computer Entertainment.
Video Review: The Complete History of the Sony PlayStation
Sony Today
Sony hired over $146,000 workers globally as of March 2013. The company’s year-end sales were over $7.5 billion in March 2014, including a net loss of over $1.2 billion in the United States. The company’s decision to close down its struggling PC production business was responsible for a large portion of the loss in its audio and video units, as well as lower-than-expected handset revenue and continuing price pressure from lower-cost competitors.
The company’s mobile communications, entertainment, gaming, imaging products, and Sony Pictures divisions are all doing well, generating the majority of the company’s expected sales growth for the foreseeable future.
Video Review: Sony Business Empire | How big is Sony?
I'm a 34-year-old freelance musician and soundproofing specialist, DIY enthusiast, blog author, and Silence Wiki founder originally from the Netherlands.
I've been a musician for over 15 years now - playing all sorts of instruments but especially guitar and saxophone. As a soundproofing specialist, I help people with their acoustic needs in order to make them happy! I also enjoy DIY projects around the house or wherever else they are needed - thanks to my wife who always has great ideas!