Netflix to launch on PS3 in November
Former 360 exclusive film streaming service confirmed for Sony console
Netflix is to bring its film streaming rental service to PlayStation 3 from next month following its securing of a deal with Sony.
The US service, which makes thousands of films and TV episodes available for subscribers to stream directly to their TVs, has been available on the Xbox 360 for over a year.
As its exclusivity period with the console has been nearing an end however, Netflix has voiced its intention to bring the service to other platforms, with Netflix CEO Reed Hastings saying last month that it aims to be on all the games consoles, Blu-ray players and internet TVs.
The Sony deal will mean that any US Netflix member will be able to stream content via a PlayStation 3 at no extra cost. The technology will be enabled by an instant streaming Blu-ray disc that will be sent free to members.
"The PlayStation 3 system has always been about more than just gaming, and it will soon be the only platform in the industry to offer consumers such a variety of convenient options for enjoying movies and TV shows," said Jack Tretton, president of SCEA.
"Whether you want to watch content on Blu-ray disc and DVD, download it from the PlayStation Network’s video delivery service, or stream videos instantly from Netflix, the PS3 system is the only solution that offers it all."
"As instantly watching movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix becomes an increasingly popular way to enjoy the Netflix service, our goal is to rapidly expand the devices that stream to our members," added Netflix CEO Reed Hastings.
"As a leading game console and Blu-ray disc player, bringing Netflix to the PS3 system is a real win for both Netflix members and PS3 system owners."
According to Microsoft figures, over one million Xbox 360 users downloaded and activated Netflix in its first three months of availability and have watched over 1.5 billion minutes of of video since it launched in November last year.
The PlayStation 3's install base is nearly nine million in the US, while Netflix had 11.1 million subscribers as of September 30.