Netflix streaming on PS3 next month; Microsoft responds

After almost a year of exclusivity on the Xbox 360, the Netflix "Watch Instantly" streaming service is coming to the PlayStation 3.

Netflix streaming on PS3 next month

While it's been rumored for months, just hours ago, both parties confirmed it--the Netflix streaming service will be coming to the PlayStation 3! The "Watch Instantly" feature is set to debut on Sony's home console sometime next month.

According to the press release issued by Netflix (reprinted below), PlayStation 3 owners will only be able to use the service when a free, Netflix-provided BD Live-enable Blu-ray disc (Netflix customers can pre-order the disc here is in the disc-drive. From there, users can browse their "Watch Instantly" queue or see recommended movies. One feature that is exclusive to the PlayStation 3, by virtue of having an integrated browser, is the ability to access Netflix.com and explore the entire database of streaming movies.

We've already ordered a disc for the PS3 here at GamePro Towers, and will keep you updated on this exciting new feature for the console. For now, you can read Netflix's press release below!

UPDATE: Microsoft has sent us their official response, stating "When it comes to total entertainment experiences and value, Xbox 360 is always leading the charge. The only place to watch Netflix movies with friends anywhere in the U.S. is still on Xbox 360. On top of that, Xbox 360 is just weeks away from becoming the first console to deliver Facebook, Twitter, Last.fm, and a library of movie titles available in instant-on HD in 1080p with 5.1 surround sound from Zune video. Xbox 360 continues to break new ground in entertainment for people who want to share the best movies, music, games, and social networking experiences with their friends and family?whether they?re in the same room or on opposite sides of the country."

Coming Soon: Netflix Members Can Instantly Watch Movies and TV Episodes Streamed to TVs Via the PlayStation(r)3 Computer Entertainment System

With Movies Streamed Instantly from Netflix, Blu-ray/DVD Playback and Downloadable Videos via the PlayStation(r)Network, the PlayStation 3 System Offers The Industry's Most Comprehensive Options for Watching Movies and TV Shows

FOSTER CITY, Calif. and LOS GATOS, Calif., Oct. 26 -- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) and Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) today announced that they are joining forces to make thousands of movies and TV episodes from Netflix available to be streamed instantly to TVs via the PlayStation(r)3 (PS3(tm)) computer entertainment system. 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.

Today's announcement pairs two of the most popular and fastest growing home entertainment brands in the U.S. The PS3 system's installed base has reached close to 9 million units in the United States, and Netflix recently reported 11.1 million U.S. subscribers as of September 30.

The partnership further solidifies the PS3 system as the most complete home entertainment hub on the market today, enabling consumers to play high-definition games, watch Blu-ray movies, listen to music, view photos, browse the Internet, and download content from PlayStation(r)Network - from exclusive games to blockbuster movies and popular TV shows. PS3 system owners will soon enjoy an unparalleled experience watching their favorite movies and TV shows streamed instantly from Netflix, downloading from the PlayStation Network or watching Blu-ray/DVD media. The Netflix offering expands on the entertainment experience delivered to PS3 system owners via PlayStation Network.

For only $8.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed to their TVs and computers via Netflix ready devices such as the PS3 system and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes.

"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."

"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."

Initially, watching movies instantly streamed from Netflix via the PS3 system will be enabled by a free, instant streaming Blu-ray disc that is being made available to all Netflix members. The free instant streaming disc leverages Blu-ray's BD-Live(tm) technology to access the Internet and activate the Netflix user interface on the PS3 system, which must be online via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Netflix members simply slide the disc into their PS3 systems to reveal movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. These titles are conveniently organized into a variety of categories based on members' personal preferences, popular genres, new arrivals and members' individual instant Queues. Members can use the Netflix Web site or navigate directly on their PS3 systems to add movies and TV shows to their Queues. With the PS3 system's Wireless Controller, members can choose a movie to watch from their instant Queues or just play directly from any of the lists. They also have the ability to read synopses and rate movies. In addition, they have the option of fast-forwarding and rewinding the video stream via the Wireless Controller.

Netflix members and PS3 system owners can now reserve a free instant streaming disc for PS3 systems by going to www.netflix.com/ps3. Upon availability, the instant streaming disc will be delivered for free by first-class mail, generally one business day after members request it.

Comments [68]

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indysurfn

I'ts on PS3, it's awesome! Now netflix is a good thing? Man I tell you irrational FANTOYS!!!

360404
AntiAmericanArmy

This is great for PS3 owners! I have netflix on the 360 and use it a lot. I don't buy movies anymore... when my xbox live gold ran out and went to silver I found out that I couldn't use netflix anymore... I wish xbox live was free!!! But I might get a PS3 some day now that it's getting netflix. I still wonder about online gaming with the PS3 cause I have only played one at the store. I'm so use to the 360 controller too, it would take awhile to get use to there controller again. I had the PSone and PS2... TEMPTING SONY KEEP IT UP!!!

bigtime726

nice wonder if ps3 will give more movies then xbox. because on computer there are way more movies to stream then on xbox. with ps3 having web browserit does will it allow for all the instant stream or will it be limited. i guess only time will tell.

lbailey84

I don't get it, why would they do that? They already have movies on PSN. Yea they'll get a bigger library, but won't those proceeds go to Netflix?

shytown420

only if netflix streaming service can be use outside the U.S, like Puerto Rico and Canada, I would get it.

tparsons5150

lbailey84 wrote:

I don't get it, why would they do that? They already have movies on PSN. Yea they'll get a bigger library, but won't those proceeds go to Netflix?

So your asking why would Netflix do this for the PS3 because they would get all the proceeds? Yes I can see your point why would Netflix do something that would put money in their own pocket How Stupid of them!

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