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EU Commission: Go ahead, Sony, own 'Sony Ericsson'

The European Commission OKs Sony's buyout of the Sony Ericsson brand, bringing us one step closer to Sony-branded mobile phones.

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Jessica Dolcourt Editorial Director, Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt's career with CNET began in 2006, and spans reviews, reporting, analysis and commentary for desktop software; mobile software, including the very first Android and iPhone apps and operating systems; and mobile hardware, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of practical advice on expansive topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Expertise Team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
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Jessica Dolcourt
Sony CEO Howard Stringer James Martin/CNET

Sony's takeover over of Ericsson's stake in their decade-long joint venture is well underway.

A nod from the European Commission this week removes one more impediment for Sony to dissolve its mobile partnership with Ericsson and assume full control.

Sony announced the $1.47 billion deal in October 2011 as part of a bid to more tightly steer the company's "four-screen strategy," which includes smartphones.

At CES earlier this month, Sony revealed several Android smartphones bearing its name, including the Sony Xperia S and Sony Xperia Ion.

With this hurdle out of its way, Sony is one step closer to acquiring--and then dissolving--the Sony Ericsson brand.