"Sony: The Private Life" by John Nathan is a biography of the Japanese electronics company Sony, tracing its history from its founding in 1946 to the present day. The book provides an in-depth look at Sony's innovative products, corporate culture, and leadership, and how these factors contributed to the company's success and eventual decline.
The book explores the story of the company's co-founders, Akio Morita and Masaru Ibuka, and their vision to create a company that combined cutting-edge technology with sleek design. It also details Sony's early innovations, such as the Walkman and the Trinitron television, and how they helped the company establish a strong brand and reputation.
However, the book also examines the challenges that Sony faced in the 21st century, including increased competition and rapid changes in technology, and how these factors led to a decline in the company's fortunes. The book also delves into the internal politics and corporate culture at Sony, and how these factors contributed to the company's difficulties.
Overall, "Sony: The Private Life" is a comprehensive and engaging look at one of the world's most innovative companies, and how it has shaped the electronics industry and popular culture over the past several decades.