The three million set-top boxes Sony is producing for Cablevision fit neatly into that vision. We've moved up to beta phase and it's living up to expectations. We're working on interactive television opportunities for it. The other digital cornerstones of the strategy are PlayStation 2, VAIO computer products, and Sony's mobile communications technology, including cell phones and personal digital assistants. For Sony, each gateway represents not only a specific digital device but also an ideal of integrated content, services, and technology that the company intends to bundle in a comprehensive package.
Stringer cites three main goals.
First, develop and expand Sony content and create entirely new forms of content for a digital world. Second, create an array of new services to support and enhance the way consumers experience content. Lastly, forge business alliances to maximize the combination of Sony content and Sony hardware and technology. What it all comes down to, says Stringer, is convergence. Convergence is real - it's happening all around us.