The digital media services firm will develop new technologies in existing and new areas of operation as a wholly-owned Sony subsidiary. Senior management will remain in place.
Tim Schaaff, senior vice president of software at Sony, said: "Sony sees tremendous growth potential in developing Gracenote as a separately run business unit.
"By broadly embracing Gracenote's platforms, Sony expects to significantly enhance and accelerate its own digital content, service and device initiatives. "