PlayStation 3 the number one platform for Netflix

Sony's PlayStation 3 is the world's most popular device for viewing movies and TV shows from Netflix on a TV, the company has announced.

"PS3 is our largest TV-connected platform in terms of Netflix viewing, and this year, at times, even surpassed the PC in hours of Netflix enjoyment to become our number one platform overall," Netflix chief Reed Hastings said.”

Why is Netflix, which enjoys 30 million streaming members globally, so popular on PS3? Hastings suggested the fact access to the app is free through PlayStation Network (you have to hold an Xbox Live Gold subscription to access it on Xbox 360) is a contributing factor. Also, he said Netflix is able to update the app with new features on a daily basis on the console.

The PS3 was the first computer entertainment system to offer Netflix in full 1080p video resolution with 5.1-channel Dolby Digital Plus surround sound and to offer post play, second screen controls, on device sign-up and alternate audio options including subtitles.

Netflix's popularity on PS3 is further evidence of the increased use of non-video game applications on video game consoles, and Sony, like Microsoft and Nintendo, is keen to stress that there's more to their hardware than playing games.

"The PlayStation and Netflix communities both share a strong passion for high quality entertainment," Sony Computer Entertainment America boss Jack Tretton said.

“Netflix provides a fantastic experience for watching TV shows and movies on PS3, and our joint development will continue to produce innovations for our customers that further demonstrate PS3 as the true home for entertainment in the living room."

Earlier this year Netflix launched on PS Vita in the US.