September 22, 1999

Sony Announces "MagicGate Memory StickTM IC Recording Media with "MagicGate" copyright protection technology

Tokyo, Japan- Sony Marketing (Japan) Inc. today announced plans to launch "MagicGate Memory Stick", a compact IC recording media equipped with "MagicGate" copyright protection technology. Two products, the [MSG-32A (32MB)] and [MSG-64A (64MB)] will be released on the Japanese market this December.

"MagicGate" is a copyright protection technology that consists of an authentication technology and an encryption technology. Authentication technology ensures that protected content is only transferred between compliant devices and media, and protected content is recorded and transferred in an encrypted format to prevent unauthorized copying or playback.

*"MagicGate Memory Stick" and "Memory Stick Walkman [NW-MS7]" will comply with the SDMI (Secure Digital Music Initiative) specification to enable the storing and playback of music contents to protect the rights of copyright holders.

Model	Introduction Date	MSRP*
MagicGate Memory Stick [MSG-32A] (32MB) [MSG-64A] (64MB)	Dec. 21, 1999 (in Japan)	13,500yen 22,000yen

*Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

Main Specifications of MSG-32MB and MSG-64A

	MSG-32A	MSG-64A
Storage Capacity	32MB	64MB
Connector Type	10 Pin Connector
Interface	Serial Interface
Clock Speed	Max. 20MHz
Write Speed	Max. 1.50 MB/s
Read Out Speed	Max. 2.45 MB/s
Power Source (Voltage)	2.7V to 3.6V
Power Consumption	Average: Approx. 45mA, Standby: Max. 300uA
Outer Dimensions	Approx. 21.5 X 50 X 2.8mm (W/L/T)
Weight	Approx. 4g

Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, communications and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. Its music, pictures and computer entertainment operations make Sony one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of over $56 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1999. Sony's Home Page URL: http://www.sony.co.jp/