The 10-Year Timeline Focus

Numata: Could you explain what inspired you to create the Creative Entertainment Vision, and what the aims of the vision are?

Totoki: This time, we set a 10-year timeline and discussed how we could create such a world. We took on the challenge of summarizing it in a video. We spent around two years in discussions, mainly involving diverse employees from various Group companies. We also met with Corporate Distinguished Engineers (DE)* to create a technological roadmap approximately 10 years ahead. I think that by presenting a concrete vision, it stimulates curiosity and imagination, leading to the formation of new ideas. So, I hope it can serve as a catalyst for such creativity.

Numata: Some employees have been asking about the relationship between Sony's Purpose, "Fill the world with emotion, through the power of creativity and technology," and the Creative Entertainment Vision. How do you position the Creative Entertainment Vision in relation to the Purpose?

Totoki: I see the Purpose as a compass with no specific time limit. Under this Purpose, I wanted to show the worldview we aim to achieve in 10 years. In the Corporate Strategy Meeting, I presented this vision and explained the steps we are already taking to achieve it. The timeline was what I was most conscious of this time.

*Sony recognizes engineers who capture signs of change, formulate and promote technological strategies, and support the growth of human resources for Sony's sustainable growth as "Corporate Distinguished Engineers."

Expanding Possibilities with New Content from Diverse Businesses

Haruna: In the Creative Entertainment Vision, the creation, cultivation, extension and deepening of IP that generates infinite emotions across generations are expressed through three concepts: "Creativity Unleashed" (showing the creation of IP and unleashing the creativity of creators around the world), "Boundaries Transcended" (showing the cultivation of IP, connecting diverse people and values, and fostering communities), and "Narratives Everywhere" (showing the expansion and deepening of IP, expanding experiences rich in narratives beyond imagination and around the world, like Location-Based Entertainment). The website provides detailed explanations of these concepts.

Totoki: With the expansion of the Internet and the commoditization of distribution technology, there are more opportunities for people to discover new forms of creativity and content, and this led to a phenomenon where creations that resonate with people have the potential to gain significant popularity. That is why we must think of ways to unleash the sensibilities of creators and make it easier for them to deliver their work to the world. We, as a company, are rare globally in having diverse businesses like games, music, movies, and anime. If we can synergize these strengths to create new types of content, our potential as a company will increase.

Numata: Movie adaptations of game IPs have created new content synergies beyond traditional domains.

Totoki: While it is important to build leadership and projects as a company, I think the ideal situation is for employees to independently discover business opportunities, establish connections with colleagues across the Group, and create many new projects through a bottom-up approach. That said, from a business standpoint, it can be challenging to replicate the ability to create many things from the bottom-up. That can be a barrier to entry. Some businesses depend on the amount of investment, but creating a world where that's not the only determining factor to the success of a business can broaden our possibilities.

The Importance of "How to Use AI"

Numata: Many employees in the entertainment business are particularly interested in the role of AI. What are your thoughts on this?

Totoki: The trend in AI has shifted from the learning phase to the inference phase, and now we are at the critical point of deciding how it will be used. The issue of copyright infringement also necessitates firm adherence to rules. Creativity involves thinking about how to utilize AI to deliver emotional experiences to our customers and potential users.

The Vision Inextricably Linked to Semiconductor Technology

Numata: How do semiconductor technologies relate to the worldview of the Creative Entertainment Vision?

Totoki: The Creative Entertainment Vision cannot be discussed without semiconductor technology. For instance, Sony Interactive Entertainment has released PlayStation®VR, and there are various discussions about AR glasses within society. The concept has been around for a long time, but it needs to be affordable and provide an enjoyable experience. Continuing to pursue this vision is crucial. It would be ideal if we can present new ideas to the world with a technology that integrates sensor and sensing technologies.

Embrace Challenges as `Boundary Spanners' with Passion

Haruna: How can each business unit within the Group collaborate effectively, despite having different objectives?

Totoki: It's vital for each business to continuously evolve and remain attractive. Without charm, people won't be drawn to it. Additionally, I hope everyone will have the passion to find opportunities within the Group, launch new businesses, and create new content. New endeavors don't last easily, so Boundary Spanners need to have a high level of enthusiasm. The satisfaction of achieving such goals with passion is significant. I encourage everyone to take on these challenges, and we will provide full support. Let's all do our best.