Sony plans music and video service

Sony is likely to introduce a new music and video subscription service at the IFA technology show in Berlin.

It is said that the service will be compatible with a number of its devices. The move is seen as the electronics giant's attempt to compete with Apple, which currently boasts a strong hold in the field of digital media.

Apple is also set to announce updates to its iPod, iTunes and TV products.

Although initially the service will be made available only for the PlayStation games consoles, later it can be accessed through a range of internet-enabled devices including Walkman music players, Vaio computers, Bravia TVs, Blu-ray players as well as Sony Ericsson mobile phones, according to sources.

Last year, Howard Stringer - president of Sony - revealed that 90% of the company's products would be enabled to connect to each other and the web by 2011.

The new service is likely to be launched next year, as the company is thought to have confirmed deals with all the major labels and studios.