Report: Sony To Disconnect Digital Music Store
Sony could be shutting down its digital music store, Sony Connect, according to online reports. Sources tell Digital Music News that some layoffs have already occurred, with other employees negotiating exit packages. It is unknown when Sony Connect will be closing shop, but it could be within the next few months.
Another source described the potential shutdown as “unsurprising,” as Sony has struggled in the competitive digital music market that is already dominated by iTunes. Music purchased via Sony Connect is only compatible with Sony’s line of Walkman MP3 players.
Paidcontent.org adds that Sony will redirect its focus on the Playstation, with many Sony Connect employees transferred to that division of the company. Roughly 20 positions will be eliminated from the Connect division, with Steve Banfield leaving his post as head of Sony Connect.
June 21st, 2007 at 8:57 pm
It doesn’t really surprise me that they closed it. With all the different ways to get music online now, digital download stores are a dime a dozen!
June 22nd, 2007 at 1:17 am
I don’t know why companies make software or whatever only compatible for their technology. It works for Apple, but I can’t imagine anyone else succeeding, including Microsoft.
The next company to succeed at online downloads will be the one that invents software that is multi-compatible with ALL players. Imagine downloads for your mp3 player, phone, pc, etc all from one website.
June 22nd, 2007 at 10:48 am
It’s almost like their marketing teams focus solely on how to drum up more business for their company only, but in the process their thinking is so narrow that they choke themselves out.. which seems to be what happened here.