Sony and Microsoft are two companies that have arguably the biggest competition against each other in the gaming space, with the PlayStation and Xbox brands going head to head for over 17 years, but now we have news on a partnership between the two.
This news comes courtesy of Microsoft's site, which tells us that the pair are collaborating to "enhance customer experiences in their direct-to-consumer entertainment platforms and AI solutions".
As a part of this, both companies will help develop cloud solutions using Microsoft Azure to support gaming and streaming services, also exploring the use of current Azure data center solutions for Sony's game and streaming services, which would surely apply to PlayStation Now. By doing this, the pair also aim to build better development platforms for content creators out there as well.
Semiconductors and AI are also part of the collaboration, including the joint development of image sensor solutions using Sony's image sensors and semiconductors alongside Microsoft's Azure AI technology, with the aim being to provide "enhanced capabilities for enterprise customers". The pair will work on user-friendly AI experiences too, utilising Microsoft's AI platform with Sony's consumer products.
"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," said Kenichiro Yoshida, president and CEO of Sony. "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. 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."
"Sony has always been a leader in both entertainment and technology, and the collaboration we announced today builds on this history of innovation," added Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft. "Our partnership brings the power of Azure and Azure AI to Sony to deliver new gaming and entertainment experiences for customers."
The two companies promise more information on the partnership when it becomes available.
Back in March we got a closer look at Microsoft's xCloud streaming service, which is utilising technology like cloud saves to allow gamers to play anywhere they want. With Sony's streaming efforts though, PlayStation Now has proven that downloaded games are much more popular than those streamed (twice as popular, in fact), so it's easy to see how this partnership makes sense for both parties.
Has this collaboration surprised you?