Sony MEA unveils strong TV, audio line-up for 2024
DUBAI, April 27, 2024
Sony Middle East and Africa (MEA) has unveiled its powerhouse lineup of new and innovative products across television and audio systems for 2024, setting the stage for immersive home entertainment experiences and boosting its market leadership.
This year’s lineup will expand Sony MEA’s regional consumer base, catering to various age groups and consumer preferences.
The launch comes on the back of its tremendous growth up until Q3 FY2023, across key product categories. Globally forecasted consolidated sales and operating revenue of Sony Corporation for FY’23 is approximately 86.6 billion with an operating profit of $8.3 billion.
Whereas specific to Consumer Electronic business (part of ET&S) forecasted sales and operating revenue is 17 billion and 1.2 billion respectively.
Unveiling its new range of Bravia TVs and audio devices, Sony MEA said the latest range of products reimagine the cinematic experience at home.
The newly-announced TV models feature greatly improved picture quality with high brightness, colour volume, clear shadow details in dark scenes, and sound coming directly from the screen reflecting creators’ true intent, said senior officials at the launch.
In addition, the latest BRAVIA home audio devices include an array of soundbars, a home theatre system, and a neckband speaker, which together offer multiple options to enjoy immersive cinematic sound and go perfectly with the new Bravia TVs, they stated.
In the premium audio segment, Sony has unveiled the ULT Power Sound series, which is built for music lovers who enjoy powerful, deep sound.
The lineup features three wireless speakers - the ULT Tower 10, ULT Field 7 and ULT Field 1 - as well as wireless headphones ULT Wear, so that customers can experience elevated sound pressure and deep bass, said the officials.
The series is aimed at young people, including Gen Z, who want to feel the powerful sound of being in the front row of an arena at parties with friends and family, at music events, and wherever they are, they added.
Jobin Joejoe, Managing Director of Sony Middle East and Africa, said the MEA region is one of the fastest growing markets for its large-screen TVs, particularly in the 75” and 85” screen segment, with the largest market share in the GCC.
"We are thrilled to bring the latest premium entertainment experiences to our customers in the region to support the growing appetite for OTT platforms and inspire more people to invest in an elevated home entertainment experience," he stated, while speaking to TradeArabia News Service.
"We believe technology is a tool to add more value and opportunity for a richer and more emotional life, and therefore, we have made it easier for consumers to choose and combine the complete home entertainment package," he added.
On the Middle East market, Joe said this market has always been very close to us and we have always focused in this market primarily in terms of the premium product segments across categories.
"Sony's philosophy has always been to kind of get closer to customers, understand their needs as to their product choice and also its usage. Then we take this back to the drawing board and come up with new technology and products that meet their requirements."
According to him, Sony Corp. remains committed to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) across its product range, highlighting its significance in enhancing user experiences and driving innovation.
Speaking on its latest advancements, Joe said: "Virtually all of our products now incorporate AI technology. As we continue to evolve, our AI capabilities are central to our product development and customer experience enhancements."
In particular, Sony’s electronics division has leveraged AI to advance its television technology. The company's latest XR processors use AI to replicate the human eye's perception of color, contrast, and brightness, thereby providing a more immersive viewing experience. This technology allows televisions to adjust visuals based on how humans naturally perceive them, aiming to deliver high-fidelity imagery.
Additionally, Sony’s audio products have benefited from AI, which helps separate vocal data from other sounds. This feature allows users to customize audio levels for different content, enhancing flexibility and personalization, he explained.
Regarding market expectations, the top executive said AI is typically integrated into existing products rather than being offered as standalone items.
“AI’s role is to enhance and simplify current processes, rather than stand alone,” he explained.
In the Middle East, Sony anticipates continued growth, especially in premium product segments. “Our strategy has always been to understand local customer needs and provide tailored solutions. The region has been one of our best-performing markets globally,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Sony is optimistic about the potential of AI-enhanced products in the Middle Eastern market. “While it's challenging to predict exact numbers, products that offer substantial benefits and meet customer needs are likely to see increased demand,” he added.
Sony is also focusing on the gaming sector, where it has a strong presence with its PlayStation consoles. The company recently became a founding partner of the eSports World in Abu Dhabi, underscoring its commitment to the gaming industry.
"Gaming has been a significant revenue driver for Sony, and we are continuously developing products that complement this sector," stated Joe.
The wearables market is another area of growth for Sony, particularly with true wireless headphones and other audio products. The company is investing in sustainable practices as well, aiming for zero emissions by 2050 and incorporating patented materials to reduce plastic usage, he added.
Regarding high-end products, Sony showcased its latest Crystal OLED screen, a 220-inch model priced around half a million dollars, highlighting its position in the luxury market.
Sony is actively involved in supporting content creators and nurturing their growth by developing regional mentorship programs, bringing industry experts, like-minded brands and creators under one roof through events such as the Sony Creators Convention, Alpha Festivals, Sony Cinema Line Event, and workshops in the region.
In addition to the upcoming product launches, Sony Group has also become the founding partner of Esports World Cup to unite the global and esports gaming communities, broadening the appeal of gaming and esports and nurturing promising creators and talent in the region.-TradeArabia News Service
