Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC

Also known as: Sony.

The FTC alleged that Sony made misleading claims about features of the PS Vita handheld console. A final consent order barred similar claims and required refunds or merchandise vouchers for eligible buyers.

1Official action

Resolved. Refunded, settled, ceased operating, or the claim did not hold up. Kept for the record.

Identity

Published so you can confirm this entry refers to the party you are checking, and not to somebody who shares a name.

Registrations
In the Matter of Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC (FTC File No. 122-3252, 2014)
Jurisdictions
United States (federal)

The FTC challenged claims about PS Vita features

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission approved a final order settling charges against Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC. Sony introduced the PlayStation Vita handheld gaming console for sale in 2012. The FTC alleged that Sony made false advertising claims in late 2011 and early 2012 about several technological features of the console.

The supplied release also discusses Deutsch LA, Sony’s advertising agency for the launch, but its separate conduct and order are not attributed to Sony here. The Sony order bars the company from making misleading claims about the features or attributes of its handheld gaming consoles.

The order provides relief to consumers who bought a PS Vita before June 1, 2012. Eligible buyers may receive either a $25 cash or credit refund or a $50 merchandise voucher for selected video games and services. The release does not state an aggregate refund amount, so no total redress figure is recorded. The Commission approved the final consent order by a vote of 5 to 0.

What is not established

The release describes FTC allegations and a final consent order. It does not report a finding after trial or state that Sony admitted the allegations.

Sources

Every claim above rests on one of these. Open them and check.

  1. Enforcement action March 31, 2015
    FTC Approves Final Orders Related to False Advertising by Sony Computer Entertainment America and Its Ad Agency Deutsch LA for PS Vita Game Console

Right of reply

No contact has been logged for this entry yet.

If you are named here and something is wrong, dispute this entry. There is no charge, the route never expires, and your response is published unedited.

Other marketing & creative entries

See all marketing & creative entries, or browse the full record.


First recorded March 31, 2015 · Last updated March 31, 2015