TV On Demand From PlayStation

Sony up the ante by once again redefining the PS3 as more than just a gaming console

With the Xbox 360 now downloading movies on demand, Sony’s PS3 is now getting into a similar field with the release of its TV on demand services in Australia.

The Xross Media Bar (XMB) interface signifies the start of two new TV entertainment on demand applications for PS3, which includes a high definition personal video recording device, PlayTV and streamed catch up TV services, also known as IPTV, with the debut of ABC iView optimised for viewing via PS3 on the living room TV.

PS3 owners in Australia can now watch what they want, when they want and how they want, either on a big screen TV, or when they are on the go with PSP and Sony Ericsson’s AINO mobile phone.

With the arrival of TV services to PS3, the console offers broadcasters the IPTV lounge room penetration through the 675,000 consoles currently installed in Australian homes.
ABC iView is the first catch up TV service to be optimised for viewing on the lounge room TV through PS3. A free internet broadcasting service that offers a range of ABC TV programmes streamed in high resolution, it features local and international comedies, dramas, news and current affairs, arts and entertainment and documentaries.

Watching iView through PS3 will be unmetered by those Internet Service Providers (ISP’s) who currently offer unmetered access for ABC iView – the full list of which can be found at abc.net.au/iview.

PlayTV is a new device that connects via USB to PS3, instantly adding Personal Video Recorder (PVR) and twin HD digital TV tuner functions to the PS3 entertainment suite. PlayTV is simple to use, features a seven day electronic programming guide and has no ongoing subscription costs. It is endorsed by Freeview, the free digital television service in Australia, giving consumers greater choice when switching to digital high definition television.

With twin HD tuners, PlayTV allows you to watch one programme while recording another and even record television at the same time as playing a game or enjoying a Blu-ray movie. Owners can then either watch their pre-recorded programs on the TV at a convenient time for them, or alternatively on the go via Remote Play on PSP or Sony Ericsson’s AINO phone, via WiFi or in AINO’s case, 3G.