TGS: Sony delays Home until spring 2008

Sony has delayed the release of its social networking and online gaming service Home.

The software, free to PlayStation 3 users, will be delayed until spring 2008, "so we can truly meet the needs and feedback of the users," said Kaz Hirai, president of Sony Computer Entertainment.

Hirai also noted that Sony is pursuing a number of different business models for the service, which the company and its business partners can take advantage of.

"The more I think about it, I think there are a multitude of business chances - not just from ourselves, but from our partners as well," he said.

Home is currently in a closed beta phase with an invite only beta expected imminently.

Sony's vice president of Worldwide Studios Jamie MacDonald recently told GamesIndustry.biz that the company will be pursuing a soft launch of the service, as the platform evolves and matures over time.