Olympus announced today that it agreed to a new business alliance with Sony over medical devices — specifically endoscopes.
The two companies first entered into a collaboration in September 2012, establishing Sony Olympus Medical Solutions. The joint venture aimed to combine Olympus’ lens and optical technologies, plus brand and R&D, with Sony’s broad range of technologies. That includes Sony’s digital imaging solutions.
Together, the companies aimed to create new products and business that “contribute to the development of the healthcare system.” They managed to develop three products so far and now seek to strengthen their agreement to further expand the collaboration.
Olympus said the scope of the 2012 agreement covers surgical endoscopes with 4k (or higher) resolution or 3D function. The companies now aim to expand to next-generation gastrointestinal and respiratory endoscopes. In particular, they hope to strengthen …