Sony plans to split off fast-growing image sensor business

Move is part of push to make units more accountable for their profitability

Sony’s sensors are used in a range of smartphones and have helped lead a turnaround at the firm.
Sony’s sensors are used in a range of smartphones and have helped lead a turnaround at the firm.

Sony said it will split off its semiconductors operations to bolster growth in devices such as image sensors, which have emerged as the company's strongest products in recent years.

Sony said the move was part of the company’s push to split off various business units into separate companies while they retain full ownership, to accelerate decision-making and make them more accountable for their profitability.

Sensors, used in smartphones such as Apple’s iPhone, have helped lead a turnaround at Sony in the past year while its TV and mobile operations have struggled.

Reuters