By 2002, Sony was maintaining the basic models without attempting to regain lost ground. The lineup had become residual, its role limited to serving the last loyal cassette users.
WM-FX202
The WM-FX202 is a Walkman with a built-in radio. It features a bass boost function and uses AA batteries. It belongs to the early Walkman lineage that integrated radio functionality.
WM-GX202
The WM-GX202 is a Walkman with radio and recording capabilities. It features bass boost and automatic reversal, and uses AA batteries. It has an early combined configuration that combines radio and recording functions.
WM-EX631
The WM-EX631 is a playback-only Walkman with an automatic reversal function. It features remote control operation and a bass boost function, and is compatible with AA batteries and gum-type rechargeable batteries.
2002 revealed what the category looked like once it was no longer central to Sony’s plans. The acceptance of that status smoothed the path from dominance to legacy. 2002 left the Walkman category as a quiet survivor instead of a strategic priority, the very survival underscoring how completely the center of gravity had moved.
