Andre Yoskowitz
27 Aug 2012 10:01
According to multiple reports, Sony is closing its Optiarc division.
Sony Optiarc, which is its own subsidiary responsible for the company's production of optical disc drives, will completely shut down operations by March of next year.
Optiarc was formerly a joint venture with NEC, but Sony bought out NEC's stake back in 2008.
The company has a 15 percent market share of the optical disc drive market, but has been running at a loss for years now. This is thanks to 'fierce competition' from overseas, say the sources.
After ceasing operations next year, the company will liquidate everything remaining, so stay tuned for some cheaper DVD drives.
Additionally, 400 employees will be laid off, or leave the company via an early retirement package.