Disc manufacturing ends at Thalgau plant
Sony has announced plans to wind down disc production at its Thalgau, Austria facility by 2028, retraining staff to instead manufacture optical microlenses. The Sony DADC plant in Thalgau currently churns out roughly 600,000 discs daily—half of which, or 300,000, are destined for the PlayStation console. Under the company's roadmap, output at this site is expected to plummet to about 10% of current levels by 2028.
The facility employs 300 people and stands as Sony's last wholly owned disc-making plant. The company previously closed its New Jersey (USA) factory in 2011, and production from Indiana (USA) was shifted to Austria in 2022. That former Indiana site now serves the automotive industry.
“The Thalgau plant currently produces around 600,000 discs per day, half of which are for PlayStation”
Dietmar Tanzer, President of Sony DADC
Pivot to next-generation optics
In late 2024, Sony showcased microlens fabrication at the facility, having invested €30 million in the project. Series production of microlenses could begin as early as next year, in 2025.
Microlenses are integral to various optical systems, including augmented and virtual reality headsets. This shift opens up potential partnerships with automakers, who may become key customers for Sony's new product line.
The closure of disc manufacturing at Thalgau mirrors broader tech industry trends and shifting demand for physical media. As digital platforms and streaming services gain dominance, disc production is in steep decline. At the same time, Sony's investment in emerging technologies like optical microlenses signals the company's drive to adapt to evolving market conditions and develop new business lines—a move that could help preserve jobs and support the region's economic growth.
The decision to cease disc production at the Thalgau facility aligns with Sony's broader strategy to adapt to changing market dynamics. As the company shifts focus to innovative technologies, such as microlenses, it reflects a significant transition in the gaming industry. For a deeper understanding of Sony's plans regarding PlayStation disc production, read more about the upcoming halt in disc manufacturing.