Netflix is coming to the PS3 UpDate

[Kevzin]

So this is why Netflix's stock went soaring. After countless rumors, Netflix's streaming service is finally coming to the PlayStation 3. Even better: it'll be free for PlayStation Network members that have a Netflix account. According to the press release,Netflix expects to begin streaming via the PS3 system next month at no additional cost to Netflix members in the United States who have a PS3 system."
It looks like you'll also be able to manage your Netflix streaming queue directly from your PS3; no need to have access the site via computer first. It'll be interesting to see how Microsoft responds to the loss of its once-exclusive feature -- perhaps it will open up the service to free Xbox Live Silver accounts? And will Nintendo ever join the fray?




Launching Netflix requires a special Blu-Ray disc, but there are advantages to playing your queue via the XMB over Xbox 360:

1. You don't need to be a $50/year Xbox Live Gold member.

2. PS3 is probably how you watch Netflix-mailed Blu-Ray discs, so now you have a complete Netflix-powered home entertainment machine.

3. BD-Live is possible, which should mean the return of DVD extras, something that isn't currently available via the Instant Queue.

4. Add to your Queue, read the synopsis and rate movies without the use of a PC (Coming to the Fall Xbox Dashboard update rolling out now).

5. PS3 is quieter. No need to wish you could call the usher to shush your jet engine-sounding Xbox 360.


Streaming Netflix through the PS3 will still require at least an $8.99-a-month Netflix plan, but the company's partnership with Sony means Instant Queue is finally open to gamers who aren't card-carrying Xbox Live Gold members.

“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.”

Just remember to sign up for the disc.


UPDATE: Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter thinks the disc-based approach is to work around Microsoft's exclusive "on the dash" deal with Netflix. Pachter also believes we'll see a similar Netflix implementation for the Wii in the next 12 months, but doesn't comment on the Wii's potentially crippling lack of HD-capability. Rumors of an HD Wii part coming next fall are swirling, however.

Netflix was kind enough to answer a heap of nitpicky questions following the announcement that its steaming service would soon be available for PlayStation 3. Certainly, question marks hovered over the application "disc" and whether or not it would have to always be in the PS3 to use the Netflix streaming service. It turns out that Netflix won't have an integrated XMB solution just yet -- but it's coming.

Check out our interview with a Netflix representative for the full details:

Was the PS3 application developed internally by Netflix?

Netflix: Yes, with the help of the Sony team.

Can the Netflix application be installed to the PS3 hard dive from the disc? Or must the disc be inserted every time a user wants to access Netflix?

Yes, the Netflix disc has to be inserted every time to access the Netflix service.

Why a disc-based application and not streaming access through the PS3 browser?

Netflix members and PS3 owners have really wanted a way to instantly watch movies and TV episodes streamed from Netflix via the PS3 system. The instant streaming disc represented the fastest and easiest way to let them do this.

Why not distribute the application via PSN download or firmware update, and then embed it into the XMB?

Again, the instant streaming disc represented the fastest and easiest way to let PS3 enthusiasts get Netflix on the PS3. Late next year we expect to have an embedded solution available for PS3s via a system software update slated for release through the PlayStation Network.

Is releasing the PS3 application on a disc required by an exclusivity agreement with Microsoft?

The Netflix agreement with Sony for PS3 is consistent with the terms of our partnership with Microsoft for Xbox 360. Our goal is to give members the opportunity to instantly watch movies streamed from Netflix via the widest variety of Netflix ready devices. All of our partners are aware of our goal.

Is any new content being added to the Netlfix streaming catalog alongside this announcement?

We are constantly adding content to better serve our members, however we did not announce new content alongside the PS3 announcement.

Can users search the entire Netflix streaming library from the PS3? (On Xbox 360, browsing is currently limited to 100-movie categories.)

Similar to Xbox, subscribers can search lists of movies in categories such as New Releases, Drama, Action, Comedy, etc., and will have access to the entire library available to watch instantly.

Will special features typically found on DVD and Blu-ray discs (e.g., additional audio tracks, director commentary, etc.) be available through the PS3 application?

No.

Is there any difference between the content catalog available on PS3 versus Xbox 360?

No.

Does the PS3 application include any features that aren't in the Xbox 360 application?

No.

Are there more features being planned for a future update?

Again, late next year we expect to have an embedded solution available for PS3s via a system software update slated for release through the PlayStation Network.

Finally, what's the update on a Netflix application for Wii?

Certainly, the Wii represents a great opportunity given the size of its installed base, but we have nothing specific to say about it at this point. The Xbox partnership has been terrific for Netflix members, and we're equally excited to announce the partnership with PS3.