Final answer:
The Sony and Ericsson merger started in 2001, forming a partnership that lasted until 2012 when Sony took full control and rebranded the venture as Sony Mobile Communications.
Step-by-step explanation:
The merger between Sony and Ericsson began in the year 2001. This joint venture brought together Japanese electronics manufacturer Sony and Swedish telecommunications company Ericsson, with the goal of creating a strong brand in the mobile phone industry. The company was known as Sony Ericsson, and it operated until Sony eventually acquired Ericsson's share of the venture in 2012, leading to the rebranding as Sony Mobile Communications.