via Games Industry


Sony Computer Entertainment Japan has confirmed that a new download service offering movies on the PlayStation 3 is set to launch shortly.

The service will go live in the US this summer, according to Kaz Hirai, with a roll-out in Japan and Europe at later dates. Official timings are expected next month.

The service will be a direct rival to Microsoft's service over Xbox Live, which currently boasts movies and TV content from a host of partners including MTV, Warner Bros., Paramount and National Geographic, amongst others.

The company said that the PlayStation 3 will be the first Sony product to benefit from video services, with plans to expand video to other products by 2010.

As a further sign of Sony's commitment to networked products, this November Sony Pictures Entertainment will offer Will Smith movie Han$#@! to all internet connected Bravia LCD TVs in the US before it's available on DVD.