Sony is set to take a major step in the delivery of a new PS home content network that will deliver gaming, streamed movies and music as well as access to their own social network site.
The new initiative will take them smack bang up against Microsoft Live and the Apple iTunes store and allow Sony registered participants create their own – virtual representation of themselves – and then interact with other users in a 3D environment.
The Beta site goes Live tomorrow and has been in the making for more than 2 years.
It is expected that Sony Australia will roll out a version of the site in the New Year with local content and local services.
Earlier this year Sony Computer Entertainment met with Ice TV with a view to delivering a complete EPG on the new network that will interface with Sony Bravia TV’s and Playstation 3 consoles and PSP handheld games.
The network and the Sony devices that can be attached to it will be a threat to the Seven Media TiVo network as it will also contain content and third party services.
PS Home will be available free to all registered PlayStation Network users.
Tim Clark of the Official PlayStation Magazine told the BBC that the concept of a virtual clubhouse for PlayStation owners has been under development for a number of years, although it was not officially announced until early 2007 and that the project was a “hugely ambitious undertaking”.
He said “The idea behind Home is to create a virtual space for PS3 owners to meet up, talk and play games – the easiest way to think of it is as a hybrid of Facebook, Second Life and the prettiest game lobby ever.”
“Given the experience is dependent on a stable, lavish 3D environment, and the fact that while every PS3 is broadband enabled – that’s obviously not the case with a PS2 – so it’s not surprising the project has taken some time.”
The launch of the new network which will be rolled out in the USA and Europe will also be a revenue generator for Sony with the Company selling services, music, video and games.
And while the service is initially free to PlayStation Network users, Sony is looking at future revenue streams similar to what Apple is generating through the iTunes store.
