Sony to release “Designed for Walkman” to counter the iPod

September 9, 2008 by Dennis Amith

Mainichi Daily News reported, “Sony Corp. will be opening up the traditionally-closed market for accessories for its Walkman personal music player, it announced on Monday, with a new “Designed for Walkman” licensing scheme similar to that for the iPod, in an attempt to claw back sales from rival Apple.”

“Sony, who has historically insisted on producing all Walkman accessories in-house, will be releasing the specifications for its “WM-PORT” proprietary connector to approved manufacturers, who will then be able to market their products as “Designed for Walkman.”