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Netflix To Stream Movies Over PlayStation 3

Line between computer and TV continues to blur

October 26, 2009

The PS3 system's installed base has reached close to nine million units in the U.S., and Netflix recently reported 11.1 million U.S. subscribers as of September 30.

The partnership is the latest for Netflix, as it seeks ways to distribute its video products directly to consumers' TV sets, without having to mail a DVD, which is its current distribution method. For PlayStation 3 users, the Netflix content expands the function of the game console. It currently allows users to play high-definition games, watch Blu-ray movies, listen to music, view photos, browse the Internet, and download content from PlayStationNetwork.

Those connected to the network will be able to watch TV shows and movies streamed instantly from Netflix, downloading from the PlayStation Network or watching Blu-ray/DVD media.

"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.

"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 accesses the Internet and activate the Netflix user interface on the PS3 system, which must be online via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.

Netflix members will slide the disc into their PS3 systems to reveal movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. These titles will be 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.

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