Even if this range is presented by Sony Electronics rather than Sony Interactive Entertainment and is aimed primarily at PC gamers, in particular FPS enthusiasts, this hardware is still compatible and optimized for use on consoles and more specifically on PS5. It is enough to take a look at the functionalities of the screens and especially the helmets to see the desire to create a synergy with the PlayStation hardware.
“The market has expanded: the expansion of eSport tournaments and the wider distribution of matches have increased interest in gaming. With Sony having a long history of technologically advanced audio and video products, this new range will provide additional options for those looking to upgrade their current gaming gear. We are committed to supporting the growth of gaming culture by providing PC and PlayStation gamers with a wide range of options to enrich their gaming experience.“, explains the press release from the group. Note that the Inzone brand will be one of the sponsors of several eSport events including the Evo (tournament co-owned by Sony), the PGL Arlington Major 2022 of Dota 2 and Champions Tour of Valorant.
On the screen side, the range will make its debut this summer with Inzone M9 monitors (4K HDR, 144 Hz, 1 ms response time, 1099 euros) and Inzone M3 (Full HD, 240 Hz, 1 ms response time, price not disclosed). “The Inzone M9 and Inzone M3 monitors offer automatic HDR calibration with PlayStation 5 consoles to automatically recognize the screen and optimize HDR settings during installation. Additionally, the monitors will automatically switch to Cinema mode when streaming movies from the PlayStation 5, and to Game mode when launching a game.“, explains the press release.
In helmets, three models will make their debut in July: Inzone H3 (100 euros), Inzone H7 (230 euros) and Inzone H9 (300 euros) which is already the subject of a complete test by our Furolith . All feature 360° spatial sound and range from 32 hours of battery life (for the H9) to 40 hours (for the H7). “The Inzone H9 and Inzone H7 feature on-screen prompts that allow gamers to easily change their headset settings and view them on-screen in the PlayStation 5 Control Center. The headsets also feature a button game and voice balance, allowing to change the balance between game sounds and voice chat in the headset itself“, can we read.
For Sony, the creation of the Inzone range is part of an obvious desire to settle a little more in the PC market, which PlayStation has already started to do by releasing its first major games on Steam. But analyst Daniel Ahmad sees it more particularly as a strategy aimed at gaining a place in Asian markets. “Inzone will help Sony expand its presence in Asia, where there are more than 700 million PC gamers, according to data from Niko Partners. Around 49% of gamers in Asia are viewers and fans of esports content, which has led Sony to partner with top leagues to promote its brand. 59.2% of PC gamers in Asia consider dedicated gaming features a determining factor when buying a new PC and accessories“, does he have commented.
- Also Read | The complete test of the Sony Inzone H9 headphones by Les Numériques