Sony 2003 Annual Report Download - page 37

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER
So-net
Since launching its service in January 1996, Sony Communication Netw ork Corporation (SCN), the provider of the So-net
Internet service, has delivered a variety of services including high quality connectivity and the distribution of unique
and attractive content.
In the year under review, although the trend toward always-on broadband service continued to evolve, thereby
expanding the opportunity to do business, pricing and service competition among service providers intensified.
In response, SCN enlarged the menu of services available through So-net to include ADSL, FTTH (Fiber-to-the-Home)
and mobile (wireless connection) network access. In the content domain, SCN started a number of services such as the
provision of broadband content including EverQuest, a popular online game, and So-net TV, a 24-hour streaming video
channel. Tie-ups with other Sony Group companies were also initiated. One was the sale to So-net subscribers of a
broadband AV router, integral to making the home network a reality. Another w as the provision of discounts to
subscribers holding the M y Sony Card. Thanks to these activities, the number of registered So-net users reached 2.3
million at the end of March 2003, with the number of broadband service subscribers among those reaching 420,000.
Going forw ard, SCN will strengthen partnerships w ithin the Sony Group (with the Electronics, Game, Music,
Pictures and Financial Services segments) to heighten Sony’s profile as a premier provider of broadband services, all in
an attempt to link the Sony name with user enjoyment of broadband netw orks.
Sony Corporation Annual Report 2003 35
Internet Service Provider
©2003 Sony Communication Network Corporation