Renewed deal keeps 2018 IP platform in place
Sony renewed its partnership with Anaqua on 7 July 2026, extending the systems it uses to manage patents, designs, trademarks and related rights across its global business units.
The renewal was announced in Tokyo on 7 July 2026. Anaqua first became Sony’s IP management platform in 2018.
Under the agreement, Anaqua will support Sony’s use of intellectual property as a core part of business strategy, innovation and global growth.
The deal covers Sony’s cross-business operations, including Games & Network Services, Music, Pictures, Entertainment Technology & Services, and Imaging & Sensing Solutions.
Sony is one of the largest patent filers globally in core technologies such as gaming and imaging. Its portfolio also ranks among the most cited in those fields.
The renewed agreement keeps Anaqua’s AQX platform, AcclaimIP analytics solution, and Patent and Design Annuities and Trademark Renewals services in place.
Sony AI-powered IP tools
Meanwhile, Sony is evaluating and adopting Anaqua’s AI-powered capabilities as part of its transformation objectives. The tools are designed to give deeper insights, faster strategic planning, and stronger brand and innovation governance.
Anaqua will also continue the consolidation and integration of Sony’s IP management across patents, designs, trademarks and related rights.
Following the renewal, Anaqua will support Sony’s shift from traditional IP protection to a portfolio-driven, data-centric approach. That model is intended to guide decisions across business units, speed innovation cycles, and support emerging technologies and new market opportunities.
Asashi Shimodaira, Sony Group’s head of IP and Technology Standardization, said efficiency was a key reason for choosing Anaqua and that the latest AI-powered functions should bring significant process improvements.
“We aim to free up time for more strategic thinking,” Shimodaira said.
Anaqua chief executive Justin Crotty said Sony had stayed at the forefront of rethinking how intellectual property supports business growth. He added that Anaqua was providing AI-driven technology to help turn IP into a stronger engine for innovation and competitive advantage.
