Xbox 360 will no longer be the exclusive Netflix console
Streaming movie rentals and online movie purchases are seen as the future by many analysts and consumers who loathe traveling to retail stores to pick out their favorite films. Mail order rental companies like Netflix have been beating up on traditional rental locations for a while now and that trend is likely to continue.
Back in August, Microsoft announced that its Xbox 360 console would be the exclusive console to stream content from Netflix. The Netflix streaming service is now available in a myriad of products from TVs to Blu-ray players and more.
Sony announced today that it is putting the Xbox 360 streaming exclusive to an end. Netflix will be coming to the PS3 in November reports Playstation Blog. Netflix and Sony have partnered to bring thousands of movies, TV episodes, and more streamed from Netflix directly to your big screen TV.
Netflix streaming will be available directly through the XMB. The best news is that the streaming service will be available at no extra charge to Netflix customers who own the PS3. PS3 owners who don’t already have a Netflix membership can get one for as low as $8.99 per month for unlimited streaming and unlimited DVDs sent to their home.
“The PlayStation 3 system has always been about more than just gaming, and it will soon be the only platform in the industry to offer consumers such a variety of convenient options for enjoying movies and TV shows,” said Jack Tretton, president and CEO, SCEA. “Whether you want to watch content on Blu-ray disc and DVD, download it from the PlayStation Network’s video delivery service, or stream videos instantly from Netflix, the PS3 system is the only solution that offers it all.”
Netflix customers will also be able to manage their instant movie queues directly from the PS3. Netflix is allowing members to reserve a free instant streaming disc for the PS3 now. Presumably the disc has the software update needed to add the Netflix service to the PS3.
“As instantly watching movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix becomes an increasingly popular way to enjoy the Netflix service, our goal is to rapidly expand the devices that stream to our members,” said Netflix CEO and co-founder Reed Hastings. “As a leading game console and Blu-ray disc player, bringing Netflix to the PS3 system is a real win for both Netflix members and PS3 system owners.”
