Sony Ready to Expand Deployment of 4K Projection Systems Across More Than 2,000 U.S. Screens

Total Resources in Place to Support Digital Conversions for Small- to Mid-Size Exhibitors - From Production Capacity, Installation and Support to Financing, 3D and Alternative Content

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Sony Electronics

Oct 13, 2010, 06:00 ET

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing its role as a full-service digital cinema solution provider for exhibitors of all sizes, Sony Electronics is expanding the industry-leading footprint of its 4K projection technology. The company's Digital Cinema Solutions group currently has about 5,000 Sony 4K screens worldwide; with one-third of those equipped for 3D – and aggressive plans are in place to install approximately 2,000 more systems, mostly covering a range of small- to mid-sized circuits.

Furthering its ability to facilitate an exhibitor's conversion, Sony is also continuing its work to pursue exhibitor financing and deployment deals in the more than 20 other countries in which Sony digital cinema is planning to operate. Most recently, Sony Electronics secured $140 million in financing that will pave the way for Sony to help exhibitors of all sizes to convert their operations to digital technology.

"The digital cinema transition is not exclusive to the large national exhibitors with thousands of screens," said Gary Johns, senior vice president, Digital Cinema Solutions, Sony Electronics. "Sony is equally committed to the smaller and independent exhibitors as we are to the largest circuits. Some of the greatest success stories and innovation are at the independent and regional level, and this latest round of financing will go a long way toward enabling Sony to offer conversion opportunities across the industry."

In addition to Sony 4K projection systems, as well as integrated software and servers, customers can turn to Sony for digital signage, including displays, controllers, software; installation, monitoring, maintenance, content creation and distribution services.

"We look forward to collaborating with many more small and mid-size exhibitors," said Pat Leon, Senior Manager, Business Development, Sony Digital Cinema Solutions. "Digital movies – in 2D and 3D -- have already proven to be a big hit at the box offices, and the movie-going consumers have enthusiastically responded to our Sony 4K projectors for a truly state-of-the-art experience."

Sony's Digital Cinema Solutions Group has digital deployments underway with a range of exhibitors, including AMC Theaters and Regal Entertainment Group -- the two largest theater chains in North America -- and, most recently, National Amusements. The group is also working with several other national and regional theater chains – including Muvico Theaters, Frank Theatres, Hollywood Theaters and Lincoln Square Cinemas, among many others -- to implement 4K projection technology and other Sony solutions.

SOURCE Sony Electronics