Sony and Sun Partner

Sony and Sun have agreed to jointly develop technology that will allow a variety of home appliances, set-top boxes, and audio and video equipment to connect to the internet. The first stage of the pact will focus on creating software for set-top boxes and digital television, but the long term focus could well be part of Sony's ambitious Playstation 2 plans by creating a simple way to distribute digital content directly to consumers. "This partnership with Sun will accelerate the development and proliferation of interactive digital content to consumer electronic devices via the Internet, enabling the delivery of advanced services that will increase serviceability and end-user benefits," explained Sony Corporation president and chief executive officer Nobuyuki Idei.