Sony 2001 Annual Report Download - page 34

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Sony Corporation Annual Report 2001
32
agreement, both companies will work together to create a framework for integrating popular interactive AOL
features, such as instant messaging, chat, and e-mail into game applications. In the same month, SCE
reached a definitive agreement with U.S.-based RealNetworks Inc. to embed RealPlayer® 8, the company’s
seminal streaming media player, and other RealNetworks client technologies on PS2. SCE also signed a
Memorandum of Understanding with U.S.-based Macromedia, Inc. to embed the company’s Macromedia
Flash Player web animation tool on PS2. Also in May 2001, SCE reached a definitive agreement with U.S.-
based Cisco Systems, Inc. to develop an IPv4/IPv6 dual protocol stack for PS2 for both the current internet
and future broadband networks.
These strategic alliances will play an instrumental role in developing new computer entertainment for a
networked era. SCE is working to introduce in each geographic area hardware that will enable use of this
broad spectrum of network-compatible content and services, including PS2 hard disk drive, adapter for
connecting to the network, LCD monitor, keyboard, and mouse. SCE will also embed the software necessary
for these functions and services into the PS2 content development library, and provide it to game software
and other content production companies. By doing so, SCE will promote the creation of entirely new
network-based computer entertainment content.
In the mobile network arena, SCE announced a tie-up with NTT DoCoMo, Inc. (NTT DoCoMo) in August
2000. This led to a new service that brings together PS and the i-mode service of NTT DoCoMo, and in March
2001, SCE introduced a mobile phone connecting cable in Japan. Already, several game software developers
and publishers are selling titles compatible with this cable. It is expected that more titles compatible with
this cable will be released.
In Europe, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., a subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.,
and UK-based Vodafone Multimedia Limited entered into a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2001
to research together a new business linking Vodafone group’s mobile phones and PS.
SCE recognizes that protecting copyrights for digital content and maintaining security in the network
era are becoming the most pressing issues. Thus, SCE is working to develop a copy management system for
PS2 while also constructing a high-level security system. In regards to content suppliers such as game
software companies, SCE’s subsidiary PlayStation.com (Japan) Inc. and various Sony Group companies plan
to supply from 2001 basic services necessary for carrying out network businesses, such as user identification
and settlement, and server hosting.
SCE, together with its partner companies, will create and develop a new world of computer entertain-
ment for the coming broadband era.