Stringer talks-up PSP TV

News - WiFi and memory stick the key

New Sony CEO Howard Stringer, the first non-Japanese to lead the jewel in Japan's electronics crown, has addressed the CEATEC electronics show, and talked-up the company's future direction. Referring to the PSP handheld, Stringer spoke of Sony's plans to increase the capabilities of the device, stating that they "Will soon be able to deploy the device's built-in Wi-Fi to watch video from home entertainment terminals, anytime, anywhere in the world."

Stringer also mooted that larger capacity memory sticks will enable users to record TV programs using digital TV recorders, for playing programs back later on the PSP. Some recording hardware already come with a memory stick slot, whilst a PSP-branded 1GB memory stick will launch in Japan soon costing 9,500 JPY. That's about 90 USD.

On the Playstation 3, Stringer was perhaps even more upbeat, booming "The PS3 is only the beginning, but it is a monumental technical advance" and claiming it was their "biggest breakthrough yet." He also highlighted the importance of the Cell processor, stating "The Cell microprocessor really sets the PS3 apart... Offering twice the processing power of Xbox 360. It's simply amazing in a home entertainment device."

Whilst Stringer highlighted the games world as Sony's biggest winner, he also noted how the firm has lost ground in the consumer electronics sector, highlighting the decline in TV and HiFi business. "We must free ourselves from the old ways that bind us," he stated. "We must restructure to improve efficiency, improve our focus and provide the necessary resources to create unique, competitive advantages."

Stringer finally concluded his speech, pointing to increased creativity and flexibility as the path forward. We'll keep you posted on all things Sony.