In an unexpected move, Sony and Microsoft have officially announced that the companies are planning to collaborate for gaming and cloud services.
The partnership will mainly focus on the sharing of technolgy and information and whilst each company’s flagship console aren’t mentioned by name (PS4 and Xbox One) the partnership will help improve entertainment platforms including gaming.
Both Microsft and Sony will work together using Microsoft Azure to help develop future cloud solutions and services within the gaming industry. Sony will also be using Microsft Azure in their own gaming and streaming services. There were also talks of the two working on A.I in the future thanks to the partnership.
Sony president Kenichiro Yoshida had this to say in the announcement; “Sony is a creative entertainment company with a solid foundation of technology. We collaborate closely with a multitude of content creators that capture the imagination of people around the world, and through our cutting-edge technology, we provide the tools to bring their dreams and vision to reality. PlayStation® itself came about through the integration of creativity and technology. Our mission is to seamlessly evolve this platform as one that continues to deliver the best and most immersive entertainment experiences, together with a cloud environment that ensures the best possible experience, anytime, anywhere.”
He then went onto say; “For many years, Microsoft has been a key business partner for us, though of course, the two companies have also been competing in some areas. I believe that our joint development of future cloud solutions will contribute greatly to the advancement of interactive content. Additionally, I hope that in the areas of semiconductors and AI, leveraging each company’s cutting-edge technology in a mutually complementary way will lead to the creation of new value for society”.
On the other side of the partnership, Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft stated; “Sony has always been a leader in both entertainment and technology, and the collaboration we announced today builds on this history of innovation. Our partnership brings the power of Azure and Azure AI to Sony to deliver new gaming and entertainment experiences for customers”.
She and head of Xbox Phil Spencer also had a back and forth over Twitter where they repeated the emphasis on their efforts for the gaming industry.
Excited about the opportunities ahead with @Sony for us to pursue our mutual gaming ambitions and delight players around the world. https://t.co/3vBuQiruiR
— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) May 16, 2019
Many Xbox and PlayStation fans may be quick to get excited about possible new announcements, especially with E3 on the horizon and whilst there is definitely a possibility I wouldn’t bank on it just yet. Whilst Xbox will still be attending Sony will be skipping this Years E3 out.
What are your thoughts on Microsft and Sony’s new partnership? Are you excited for some of the possibilities this opens up? Let us know down below or over on Twitter.
