sony hq

Sony to Discontinue Branded Video Surveillance Presence

The company is also ending its partnership with Bosch, which began in 2016.

After years of decreasing investment into video surveillance, Sony is calling it quits in the branded video surveillance business. The company will, however, continue its brand in providing imaging sensors and camera modules. Sony video surveillance products will be end of life-d (EOLed) at the end of 2020.

Along with Sony's exit, a three-and-a-half year partnership with Bosch will end. That partnership started in November 2016. Even then, it was clear that Sony was reducing its focus and investment into video surveillance. The mid-2010s were the heart of the race to the bottom and Sony, like most incumbents, could not keep pace with the rate of price cuts and product releases from some Chinese manufacturers.

In July 2019, Sony integrated its sales and marketing team with Bosch. Then, in February, Sony announced that the coronavirus pandemic was impacting its camera production, and was recommending that Sony customers switch to Bosch products. Bosch then announced that as many as 24 camera models were being EOLed, as well as various accessories.

IPVM has reported that Sony will still have a significant imaging sensor and camera module business. Sony components are regularly used in high-end surveillance products, including from Sony's branded rivals, ranging from Axis to Hikvision to Bosch. IPVM also reported that Sony will continue to sell Sony sensors. Sony sensors are used in various IoT devices, such as smartphones.

Panasonic is now the only video surveillance manufacturer from Japan since Canon turned over its business to acquire Axis.

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

Featured

New Products

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.