Sony announces that, starting in April, its hardware, software, and networking divisions are combining into one new company called Sony Interactive Entertainment.

Big structural changes have been announced at Sony, which should shake up the way that both hardware and software are developed for the company going forward. In a surprise announcement, the company reveals that all of the PlayStation divisions are being combined under the single umbrella of Sony Interactive Entertainment.

This new structure means that Sony Computer Entertainment and Sony Network Entertainment both now fall under the new Sony Interactive Entertainment division. The change will mean that all hardware, software, and network divisions are a part of the same group. The new paradigm becomes official on April 1 and the new company will be headquartered in San Mateo, California.

Sony Interactive Entertainment's president and Global CEO, Andrew House, released a statement highlighting the benefits and opportunities that come along with the massive restructuring...

“By integrating the strengths of PlayStation’s hardware, software, content and network operations, SIE will become an even stronger entity, with a clear objective to further accelerate the growth of the PlayStation business... Along with our business partners, SIE will develop pioneering services and products that will continue to inspire consumers’ imaginations and lead the market.”

Sony Structure

It sounds like the goal is to give each individual unit more focus by uniting them under a common company with clear objectives. By working together from the get-go, the hardware and software units should now be able to deliver an even more cohesive gaming experience.

In theory, consumers won't feel the impact of this shift at all and Sony will continue producing and delivering high quality hardware, software, and services. Thankfully, it doesn't sound like this change is going to lead to any major layoffs or cancellations of projects at this point. A few of Sony's top dogs have been fielding questions on Twitter about how the chain of command is going to change and who they report to now.

Sony fans who are excited for the company's VR projects can rest assured that the hardware is now under development at SIE. It seems safe to assume that all major existing projects are still underway and the company will begin to announce any new ventures in upcoming press releases. As the new structure finds its footing, it wouldn't be surprising it we don't hear any major new announcements about new hardware or software until this summer at E3 2016.

What do you think of the big changes at Sony? Let us know in the comments.

Source: IGN