Microsoft and Sony have announced a new partnership that will see the two companies working together to create "new innovations to enhance customer experiences", with a particular focus on gaming and content-streaming.

Part of the deal will see Sony exploring the use of Microsoft's existing cloud computing platform, Azure, for its game and content-streaming services, and the companies will also investigate joint development of future cloud solutions to benefit both parties in the same areas.

The ultimate goal, according the official press announcement, is to "deliver more enhanced entertainment experiences" for customers around the world, and to build "better development platforms for the content creator community".

Microsoft and Sony have also pledged to collaborate on development projects focussing on semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

Kenichiro Yoshida (left) and Satya Nadella (right) doing a shake.

"Our mission is to seamlessly evolve [PlayStation] as [a platform] that continues to deliver the best and most immersive entertainment experiences, together with a cloud environment that ensures the best possible experience, anytime, anywhere", said Kenichiro Yoshida, Sony president and CEO, of the agreement.

"For many years, Microsoft has been a key business partner for us, though of course the two companies have also been competing in some areas. I believe that our joint development of future cloud solutions will contribute greatly to the advancement of interactive content."

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella offered his own thoughts, saying, "Sony has always been a leader in both entertainment and technology, and the collaboration we announced today builds on this history of innovation...Our partnership brings the power of Azure and Azure AI to Sony to deliver new gaming and entertainment experiences for customers."