Sony Global - Press Release - Sony Reports on Voluntary Global Replacement Program for Notebook Computer Battery

The following information is true and accurate at the time of publication.

October 24, 2006

Sony Reports on Voluntary Global Replacement Program for Notebook Computer Battery Packs

TOKYO, Oct. 24 -Today Sony announced details of its global voluntary replacement program, previously announced on Sept. 28, for certain notebook computer battery packs using Sony-manufactured lithium ion battery cells. This program is being implemented in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and other regulatory agencies worldwide.

  This replacement program has been offered by Sony for all notebook computer battery packs containing the same types of Sony-manufactured battery cells as were involved in the Dell, Apple Computer and Lenovo recalls.

  Sony initiated this replacement program as a measure of its commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction and alleviating any consumer concern.

  “For those customers and PC users who may have been affected by the recent issues involving Sony-manufactured batteries, we regret any inconvenience or concern this may have caused,” said Yutaka Nakagawa, executive deputy president, Sony Corporation. “We are confident that our voluntary global battery replacement program will address any remaining concerns or needs of our customers and consumers.”

Affected Battery Packs	:	Battery packs in specific notebook computers containing certain battery cells (2.4Ah, 2.6Ah) manufactured by Sony during the period from August 2003 to February 2006.
Number of Units Covered	:	Approx. 3.5 mil units (not including packs previously recalled by Dell, Apple Computer and Lenovo).
Replacement Process	:	Specific replacement programs' starting periods and procedures for consumers have been or soon will be announced by each of the participating PC manufacturers.
Battery Disposal	:	Sony will dispose of the returned battery packs collected by the PC manufacturers.

The total cost estimate to Sony for this replacement program, including costs associated with the Dell, Apple Computer and Lenovo recalls, is expected to be about 51 billion yen. This estimate is based on the total potential of up to 9.6 million battery packs being covered.