Sony Computer Entertainment has announced that San Diego, California-based Sony Online Entertainment will report to Sony Computer Entertainment president Kazuo "Kaz" Hirai effective April 1st. This new structure is designed to leverage Sony Online Entertainment's expertise in online gaming in an effort to further strengthen the PlayStation business.

Sony Online Entertainment is currently a part of Sony Pictures Entertainment. While its president, John Smedley will report directly to Hirai in Tokyo, his company will continue to develop games for both the PC platform and PlayStation 3.