PS3 video store goes live tonight
Films or telly shows to buy and rent.
Sony has finally lifted the lid on its PS3 video download at its E3 press conference, and said it will go live sometime tonight. Is it there yet is it?
This is for the US only at the moment, but we're on at Sony Europe for clarification. The platform holder is putting on a drinks reception at E3 tomorrow so we will badger it there, too.
The US video service lets you rent or buy creations by Sony Pictures, Fox Films, MGM, LionsGate, Warner, Disney, Paramount, Turner and Funimation. That means films like Rocky, Cloverfield, and Pirates of the Caribbean will all be up for grabs.
You can rent movies for around USD 2.99 - 5.99, or buy them for USD 9.99 - 14.99. There are both SD and HD variations to grab, as well as telly shows maybe a comedy if you like.
Similarly to the Xbox 360 offering, you have 14 days to watch the content after you rent it. Once you start playing the film you only have 24 hours to finish it, a bit like Jack Bauer. SD films should take about an hour to download and you can watch them before they are finished.
One of the areas Sony is most proud of is letting you transfer films and telly shows between your PSP and PS3 thanks to some flexible digital licensing maneuvering. You can take films to watch on your way to or from work, which we like the sound of.
Navigation looked familiar and simple, and you can search by studio, title, cast or producer. There will be lots of filters to organise lists with, and every studio gets a fancy background so it looks pretty. The PS3 background download feature is said to be handy.
PlayStation Network's video delivery service capitalises on the superior value and entertainment potential of PS3 and PSP – not only for gaming enthusiasts, but also for the millions of consumers looking to buy the best, most versatile solution for their home entertainment system,” said Jack Tretton in an accompanying statement.