Sony to stop DVD burner production and release OEM orders to Taiwan

Sony, one of the world’s top three manufacturers of DVD burners, will phase out production of DVD burners beginning with 8x models and instead seek OEM production in Taiwan, according to Taiwanese makers of optical disc drives.
Sony's getting out of the DVD burner manufacturing business due to cost constraints. They just can't compete with the cheaper brands. Says Sony may contract Lite On as it's OEM.

During the first 3 quarters of this year Sony held 13% of the market, with NEC owning 25%, Pioneer 19%, and Toshiba 10%.

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