If you'll remember, Kaz has been rumored to be the replacement for outgoing honcho Sir Howard Stringer (who's been oddly quiet over the last few years) for some time now.
Actually, there were non-announcements and a string of 'it's about to happen' rumors that were hitting the web on a weekly basis. Well, after several denials and not yet's, Sony has finally pulled the trigger.
Kaz is in and Howard is out... but not completely. Stringer will be staying on as President of the electronics and gaming giant for the foreseeable future, though it's pretty much a done deal that Hirai will also be taking that seat once the former CEO takes his complete leave.