Foxconn to upgrade production of Sony LCD TVs from joint-design EMS to ODM.

WorldWide Tech & Science. Francisco De Jesús.

Taiwan-based Foxconn (Hon Hai Precision Industry) has reshuffled its R&D staff to prepare for production of Sony's LCD TVs to be launched in the US market in the second half of 2011, an initial step to transform its role in production of Sony's Bravia LCD TVs from an EMS provider with joint design with Sony to an ODM (completely responsible for design) maker, according to industry sources in Taiwan.

Foxconn declined to comment.

Foxconn's upgrade in role is to enhance its partnership with Sony following the acquisition of Sony's overseas LCD TV factories, the sources pointed out. Becoming the largest producer of Bravia LCD TVs, Foxconn is expected to land orders for about 14 million units from Sony in 2011, the sources indicated.

Sony for the first time outsourced production of high-end LCD TVs to Taiwan-based makers in 2011, and plans to increase the proportion of total output for such outsourced production in 2012, the sources indicated. Foxconn's transition from EMS to ODM will help it compete for ODM orders for Sony's high-end LCD TVs in 2012, the sources pointed out.