Microsoft and Sony are collaborating on new cloud-based innovations for entertainment platforms and AI solutions.
The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop cloud solutions in Azure that can provide improved entertainment experiences to customers.
“Sony has always been a leader in both entertainment and technology, and the collaboration we announced today builds on this history of innovation,” said Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. “Our partnership brings the power of Azure and Azure AI to Sony to deliver new gaming and entertainment experiences for customers.”
As part of the partnership, Sony will use the datacenter-based solutions of Microsoft Azure to power its game and content-streaming services. The companies will also develop better development platforms for content creators.
“Sony is a creative entertainment company with a solid foundation of technology. We collaborate closely with a multitude of content creators that capture the imagination of people around the world, and through our cutting-edge technology, we provide the tools to bring their dreams and vision to reality,” said Kenichiro Yoshida, president and CEO of Sony.
“PlayStation itself came about through the integration of creativity and technology. Our mission is to seamlessly evolve this platform as one that continues to deliver the best and most immersive entertainment experiences, together with a cloud environment that ensures the best possible experience, anytime, anywhere.”
Along with improving gaming and entertainment experiences, Sony and Microsoft will also work in areas of semiconductors and artificial intelligence (AI).
For AI, Sony will incorporate Microsoft’s advanced AI platform and tools in its consumer products. The company aims to deliver highly intuitive and user-friendly AI experiences to customers.
In terms of semiconductors, Microsoft will integrate Sony’s image sensors with Azure AI technology in a hybrid manner across cloud and edge. The companies will also develop new intelligent image sensor solutions.
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“For many years, Microsoft has been a key business partner for us, though of course the two companies have also been competing in some areas. I believe that our joint development of future cloud solutions will contribute greatly to the advancement of interactive content,” added Kenichiro Yoshida.
“Additionally, I hope that in the areas of semiconductors and AI, leveraging each company’s cutting-edge technology in a mutually complementary way will lead to the creation of new value for society.”
