The Creation of "My First Sony"

Sony's Leap into Children's Electronics.

In 1987, Sony introduced the My First Sony collection, as an innovative series of child-friendly gadgets that included miniature Walkmans, cassette players, and other fun, tech-focused toys designed for young users. These products were the company’s way of making technology approachable and educational for children, offering the same quality that Sony was known for in a playful package.

The same year My First Sony was born, Sony’s U.S. Design Center was in full swing. Located in Park Ridge, New Jersey, the center was headed by Akihiko Amanuma, a visionary industrial engineer with a deep understanding of both Japanese and American culture. Amanuma’s role was to bridge the gap between Sony’s cutting-edge Japanese technology and the distinct tastes of American consumers.