Hi Philswift,
Welcome to Sony Community!
We're sorry to hear that you have the same issue. For further assistance regarding your concern, please contact the Sony offices/Sony representative offices nearest to your place of residence in Asia Pacific region http://www.sony-asia.com/countryselector.html?hpid=countryselector:AsiaPacific. Due to proximity, they are in a better position to respond to your questions or concerns.
Please have your US friend to contact us so we could refer him to the nearest Sony authorized repair center.
Regards,
Jen
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