Sony’s founders: How 2 men made Japan known for quality

Sony, a household name known for its PlayStations and cameras, was a game-changer in the world of electronics in the 20th century. In an era when Japan’s electronics industry was associated with cheap and low-quality products, Sony emerged as a pioneer of high-quality electronics, turning the tide. This is the extraordinary story of Sony and its two founders.

Part 1: Post-World War II Genesis

The story begins in September 1945, just after World War II, when Masaru Ibuka, one of Sony’s co-founders, found himself jobless after working in a Japanese Navy research lab during the war. The demand for radios was rising rapidly as post-war Japan sought global news. Ibuka saw an opportunity and opened a radio repair workshop, quickly gaining popularity.

Part 2: The Meeting with Akio Morita

Ibuka’s successful workshop was featured in a local magazine, catching the attention of Akio Morita, the second founder of Sony. Morita had also worked with Ibuka during the war. In 1946, Morita’s father invested in their venture, and the Tokyo Telecommunications Research Institute was born. With a small initial capital of 190,000 yen (approximately $500), they embarked on their journey.

Part 3: The Humble Beginnings

Sony’s early days were far from glamorous. With no specific direction and meager capital, they experimented with various products, including a flawed rice cooker and an electrically heated cushion. In the first year, they made a paltry $300.

Part 4: The Breakthrough with Magnetic Recorders

Sony’s turning point came with the invention of magnetic recorders. Ibuka, inspired by a U.S. demonstration, realized their potential in the Japanese education system. A damning report by a fine arts student, Norio Ohga, highlighted the low quality of existing recorders and players. Sony, driven by a commitment to quality, created the G-Type and A-Type magnetic recorders, which were an instant success.

Part 5: The Transistor Challenge

The founders saw an opportunity to enter the U.S. market, focusing on transistors, a groundbreaking invention of the 20th century. Although the patent fee was steep, they believed they could improve it and make an impact. After a year of experimentation, they enhanced the transistors, opening the door to a range of possibilities.

Part 6: Revolutionizing Radio with Portable Radios

Sony’s engineers leveraged the improved transistors to create portable radios, significantly shrinking the size of these devices. The TR-55 and later the TR-63 revolutionized the industry. Sony’s marketing genius, Akio Morita, made these compact radios a global hit, setting the stage for Sony’s ascent.

 Sony’s Continued Success

Over the following decades, Sony expanded rapidly, thanks to Morita’s marketing genius and a commitment to quality. Sony inspired other Japanese companies to prioritize quality, ultimately shaping Japan’s reputation as a producer of high-quality products.

Conclusion:

Sony’s journey from a small repair shop to one of the world’s most innovative companies is a testament to the visionary leadership of its co-founders, who complemented each other perfectly. Sony’s inspiring story is one of defying the odds and achieving greatness in the face of adversity.