$SONY

Sony released a limited-quantity 27-inch PlayStation 5 gaming monitor with DualSense charging for $349, selling out quickly at retailers, including PS Direct and Best Buy. The monitor features QHD, HDR, 240 Hz refresh rate, and VRR support. Sony plans to restock in September.

Global TV shipments rose 3.6% YoY to 48.8M units in Q2 2026, driven by events like the FIFA World Cup, despite market challenges. China's shipments fell 15.1%, while Western Europe and North America grew 9.5% and 4.7%, respectively. Emerging markets saw strong growth. Memory supply constraints had limited impact, but prices may rise. Mini LED adoption accelerated, with Samsung and LG expanding offerings. Samsung overtook TCL as the Mini LED market leader. RGB LED market saw increased competition

The Nikkei 225 rose 0.47% to 66,444.13, with gains across most sectors except heavyweights like SoftBank and Fast Retailing. Toyota, Honda, and other exporters advanced. Tokyo inflation rose 1.9% YoY, matching expectations. U.S. markets gained, while European stocks mostly fell.

Universal Music Group and Sony Music amended their lawsuit against Suno, accusing the AI music company of using 'stream ripping' to bypass YouTube's encryption and train its AI. Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV allowed the claim under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act but denied adding 61,026 recordings to the existing 560. The case focuses on whether Suno's use of copyrighted material constitutes fair use.

Sony has launched its 2026 Bravia 6 OLED TV lineup, featuring 48-83 inch models. The TVs use WOLED panels and are designed to offer OLED technology at mid-range prices. Sony denies abandoning OLED, emphasizing its commitment to a full TV lineup. The Bravia 6 includes four HDMI 2.1 ports and supports gaming and streaming features. Prices range from $1300 to $4000, varying by region.

Global TV shipments rose 3.6% YoY to 48.8M units in 2Q26, driven by events like the FIFA World Cup. China's shipments fell 15.1% YoY, while Western Europe and North America grew 9.5% and 4.7%, respectively. Emerging markets saw strong growth. Mini LED TVs accounted for 13% of shipments, with Samsung and LG expanding offerings. Hisense's RGB LED market share declined as Samsung and Sony gained ground, according to Omdia.

Sony Music and nine labels sued Kroger and 18 entities for alleged unauthorized use of 392 songs in social media ads, seeking $58.8M. The suit claims central control over ad approvals. Kroger's data subsidiary, 84.51 LLC, is also named. Sony argues willful infringement, citing prior licenses and continued use post-notice.

Sony released an ad highlighting PS5-exclusive games, signaling a shift back to console exclusives for single-player titles. Games like Ghost of Yōtei and Gran Turismo 7, previously rumored for PC, will remain PS5-only. Microsoft also announced exclusives for Xbox. Sony's strategy aims to strengthen its platform, while Xbox plans gradual exclusive releases as its business improves.

Sony Music filed a lawsuit against Kroger, alleging the grocery chain used 400 songs without permission in social media posts, including works by Harry Styles and Beyoncé. According to the complaint, Kroger used popular tracks to promote products and capitalize on their cultural relevance. Sony claims Kroger previously licensed its music, indicating awareness of the need for proper permissions. Kroger has not yet commented on the lawsuit.

Sony's stock rose 1.36% to $24.25 despite a PlayStation user boycott over plans to stop producing new game discs in 2028. Game operating margin increased to 21.6%, driven by digital services and currency effects. Active users grew 2% in June, but playtime declined 4%. Analysts remain optimistic, with three of four recommending a Strong Buy.