By: Dipin Sehdev
A notable development has emerged: Sony is suspending sales of its home cinema projectors within Europe. Once existing stock is depleted, these products will no longer be available in the region. Sony has attributed this decision to evolving European regulations.
Sony's Statement on the Matter
The company's official statement indicates that compliance with recent European export control regulations and trade restrictions necessitates this discontinuation. Sony has expressed its commitment to adhering to applicable laws and regulations, and is working with its partners to manage this transition.
“To ensure our compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including recent European export control regulations and trade restrictions, we have taken the unavoidable decision to discontinue sales of Sony projectors in Europe once current stock is depleted. We remain committed to compliance with applicable laws and regulations and responsible business practices, and are working closely with our business partners to ensure a smooth transition.”
Potential Factors Contributing to the Decision
While Sony cites regulatory compliance, there's speculation about the specific nature of these regulations. Discussions with resellers and industry professionals suggest that recent European sanctions against Russia, and their impact on suppliers based in China (where Sony's projectors are manufactured), may be contributing factors.
The potential influence of the upcoming Regulation (EU) 2023/2049, which will restrict mercury-containing products, including UHP projector lamps, from January 1, 2026, is also being considered. While many of Sony’s newer projectors are laser-based, the regulatory landscape appears to be influencing its business strategy.
The possibility of importing products through non-European countries to circumvent these restrictions has been dismissed by industry sources, citing substantial penalties.
Affected Sony Projector Models
The following Sony projector models will no longer be available in Europe:
- Sony VPL-XW8100/B/W/DE (4K Home Cinema Projectors)
- Sony VPL-XW6100/B/W/DE (4K Home Cinema Projectors)
- Sony VPL-XW5000/B/W/DE (4K Home Cinema Projectors)
- Sony VPL-FHZ85/B/1 (Installation Projectors)
- Sony VPL-FHZ80/B/1 (Installation Projectors)
- Sony VPL-PHZ61/1 (Installation Projectors)
- Sony VPL-PHZ51/1 (Installation Projectors)
It is worth noting that Sony produces products that have received high CE Critic Scores, such as the Sony Bravia Projector 9 (95 % CE Critic Score), Sony VPL-XQ7000ES (92% CE Critic Score), and the Sony VPL-GTZ380 (98% CE Critic Score).
Implications for the European Market
This development will create a shift in the European home cinema market. It raises questions about how other manufacturers will respond and what options will be available for consumers who were considering Sony projectors.
Unresolved Questions and Future Outlook
Several questions remain unanswered:
- The precise regulations influencing this decision.
- The reason for the regional focus on Europe.
- The potential for Sony's return to the European projector market.
The situation will continue to be monitored, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Source: Hidden Wires, AVCESAR
