Sony to Start License Program "Designed for Walkman" to Expand Walkman Exclusive Accessory Line-up

[Humberto]

Sony Corporation today announced that it will launch a new license program, "Designed for Walkman®" and disclose specifications for "WM-PORT", an exclusive multi-terminal for connecting Walkman® with accessories, to approved licensees.

The disclosure of "WM-PORT" specifications will enable various manufacturers to produce exclusive accessories for enjoyment with Walkman® products*1. Furthermore, licensees will be able to feature the "Designed for Walkman®" logo on packaging and other aspects of Sony-approved "WM-PORT" compatible products.

With the launch of this licensing program, Sony is aiming to expand the Walkman® accessory line-up to provide further enjoyment for Walkman® users.

[johnson22]

Under the terms, any vendor that signs up gets full access to the specs for Sony's proprietary WM-PORT terminal... about 3.5 years too late. In return, licensees can prominently display this fancy, "Designed for Walkman" logo on their packaging and products as they grab for a slice of the meager accessory revenues made possible by the 4th place MP3 manufacturer owning just 2% market share

[Aikonik]

Logitech thinks it's a good idea, anway, and is due to spring a few things like speaker docks, FM transmitters and sound recorders bearing the compatibility logo in October. And clearly Sony thinks it's a good idea. Whether it shakes up the MP3 player market enough to disturb that other brand with its own "Made for..." scheme is another thing altogether.