Sony is a good example. They were doing advanced research in robotics (qrio) and pushing the high end of electronics (qualia), but recently discontinued both product lines because they don’t see the future profitability.

However, some of the more impressive technology may come from Universities, or other foundations that are fueled by grants and are not responsible to investors for profits.

“Moore voiced concern that corporate R&D is moving away from the kind of fundamental research that wins Nobel Prizes and toward a narrow focus on business goals.”