Many have tried, but all of them have failed. And now, Sony Corp. is the newest kid trying to take over Apple Inc.’s block.
Citing unidentified sources, the Wall Street Journal said Sony is developing a line of handheld devices that would go head-to-head with Apple’s niche products, particularly the iPhone and iPad.
Much like the iPhone, Sony’s upcoming smartphone would have multimedia functions such as video gaming while its iPad equivalent would have the traits of a netbook, an e-reader and a portable gaming device.
Aside from those new products that would be launched later this year, Sony will also be launching this month a new online media platform initially called as Sony Online Service, which is being billed as its answer to iTunes.
The Sony Online Service will offer similar contents being offered by iTunes, but it is banking on its wider range of device matches, offering old game titles to get a step ahead.
Sony’s aggressive push toward Apple’s portable market is in response to its lagging mobile device business, and its Chief Executive Howard Stringer said the new products are at the heart of its turnaround plan.
While Sony is gearing for Apple’s market, Steve Jobs’ technology giant is also doing the same, eyeing the portable gaming industry largely occupied by Sony’s Playstation.
Well, Sony and Apple’s face-off should be a good thing for consumers. Let us just hope, at least for Sony’s sake, that its new line of products can really challenge Apple’s leadership so we can see quality hikes and price drops. (Grace R)
Source: Wall Street Journal
