LAS VEGAS — Microsoft and Sony have competed ferociously over whose technology will dominate digital entertainment in the future, but they"ve also been quietly working on a partnership that could build a bridge between the computer and consumer-electronics industries.
Sony, Microsoft, Intel and other companies involved had hoped to announce — at this week"s Consumer Electronics Show — new standards for making computers work better with stereos, televisions and other audio and video equipment. But they have yet to agree on the details.
Sony President Kunitake Ando hinted at the partnership in a news conference yesterday, as did Intel Chief Executive Craig Barrett in a speech. "We don"t want to always compete," Ando said. "It"s better to collaborate."
A Microsoft official acknowledged the discussions were taking place but declined further comment. "We love working with partners," said Steve Guggenheimer, consumer and partner experience manager.