Sony launches video delivery on PS3 tonight

Sony launches video delivery on PS3 tonight

Playstation NetworkContrary to previously reported news, it appears as if Microsoft has an exclusive deal with Netflix for the Xbox 360. While this is certainly a victory for Microsoft, Sony does a bit of catchup by launching their own video rental store for the Playstation 3.

Launching tonight, the service will be accessible through the Playstation Store on the PS3. More than 300 movies from Warner, Sony, Paramount, Fox, Lionsgate, Disney and MGM are available for rental in standard definition. Many of those will be available in high-definition as well.

Additionally, more than 1200 television episodes will be available.

All content will be available to rent, and will be available to watch for 14 days, but must be finished within 24 hours of first play. Way to go! Much better than the 24 hours you get through other services (like Apple TV). Rentals range from $2.99 to $5.99. Much of the content will be available for purchase as well. Unfortunately no Disney titles are up for sell-through. Prices range from $9.99 to $14.99.

Marlin Digital Rights Management technology was adopted for the downloads. This is an open-source standard for DRM and will allow the content to be moved to a PSP via USB cable for viewing on-the-go.

While they are playing catchup with Xbox Live, it looks like a strong effort right out of the gate.

Source: Sony press release

Images of the store from E3 at Gizmodo

About Steven Kippel

Steven Kippel has worked as a systems designer for a leading high-end audio/video custom integrator in Southern California since 2003. He is responsible for researching new technologies and integrating them into existing systems and new construction projects. He has designed several high-profile systems for discriminating clients on the cutting-edge of technology. When he is not hard at work, Steven is spending time with his wife, playing with his band or promoting concerts and bands in the Inland Empire. His favorite bands include The Cure, U2, Eisley, Living Sacrifice and DragonForce.

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2 Comments on “Sony launches video delivery on PS3 tonight”

  1. The problem with this video service is the pricing. They need to offer an all you can eat per month or a larger quantity per month at a discount subscription service if they want to seriously compete with Netflix and Blockbuster.

    I rent at least 12 movies a month using Blockbuster TotalAccess, which costs me $19.99 per month. Using the bare minimum rental cost of $2.99 per title, getting the same amount of rentals through the PS3 service would cost me $35.88. And that is the bare minumum! I often rent much more than 12 movies per month and I’m sure I would need to pay more than the $2.99 minimum for some of the titles on the PS3 service.

  2. You’re absolutely right. I don’t see why they shouldn’t be able to rent these for $1 each. Same price as Redbox rentals.

    However it is in line with Xbox Live, Apple TV and Comcast/Time Warner VOD rentals. I guess you pay for convenience.

    Still, Netflix is definitely the winner here with disc-by-mail and unlimited online streaming for a low monthly fee.

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