Talk Playstation 3 News

The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 3.15 is now available for download and the full list of fixes are:-

• Bluetooth sync issues fixed
• Trophy syncing issue resolved
• PSP Minis now playable on the PS3 (starting December 17th all PSP minis will be playable on the PS3, for now you must go to your download list and re-download any previously purchased PSP minis for them to function on the PS3)
• XBM Icon Added – Minis Save Data Icon
• LAN Data Transfer Utility

1. Turn both the current PS3 (A) and new PS3 (B) on and connect them with a LAN cable; PS3 (A) should be connected to the TV. Please note, firmware (v3.15) must be installed on both systems.
2. On the XMB of PS3 (A), scroll to the Settings category and select [System Settings] and then [Data Transfer Utility]
3. Follow the instructions on-screen and transfer data
4. After transferring the data, follow the instructions on-screen, and then connect PS3 (B) to the TV to view the XMB
5. If content that was downloaded from PlayStation Store was transferred as part of this operation, you must activate PS3 (B) before you can use the data. Log in to the PS3 system as the user who owns the content, and then select (PlayStation Network) > (Account Management) > (System Activation) to activate the system.

Sony has confirmed PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 3.15  and will the following:-

‘minis’ come to PS3

We launched minis for PSP back in October but from the 17th December you will be able to enjoy these bite size games on your PS3 as well as your PSP. This firmware update allows the minis emulator to work on PS3 and we are working on getting the majority of the current minis ready for the PS3 from the 17th December.

PS3 Data Transfer

his feature enables you to transfer all of your saved data from one PS3 to another. So if you decide to get a new PS3 you can make sure you don’t loose any of your existing content. Content such as games, game save data, and videos downloaded from PlayStation Network can be transferred to the new PS3 system and deleted from the current PS3. Other content, including personal media files (photos, music, videos), can be copied onto the new PS3 and remain on the current PS3 system.

No word on a release date as of yet but it’s soon.

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Sony has confirmed PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 3.10 and will implement Facebook and is the answer to Microsoft’s recently released firmware update that does pretty much the same thing.

Additionally the following will be added:-

• The Photo category on the XMB has been revamped to make it easier to see more of your photos stored on the PS3.
• The PSN Friends List has been modified based on feedback we received after update 3.00. Additionally, you can now choose a color for your PSN ID on the XMB.

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In a recent interview with PlayStation: The Official Magazine in the Holiday 09 issue, Eric Lempel explains how future system firmware updates are planned and released.

We go about doing that in a few different ways. We do consumer research in addition to following our roadmap. We’ve had a very had a very long roadmap that we’ve wanted to roll out, and clearly all of them couldn’t be rolled out day one when the PS3 launched. So we’ve been implementing these features as we go along and some of them, and some of them take longer than others.

Of course time and manpower always factor in because there aren’t limitless resources. And are sometimes key features that must go out in Firmware updates. For example, you saw on September 1, we released a 120GB PS3 and we did a Firmware update, and there were some enhancements in that specifically to bring on the new hardware.

We absolutely read all the feedback that we see on our blog when we do firmware updates. We have people who look across different forums and different sites. And we also do our own testing – some very extensive testing..

But in some cases, we can’t do complete testing because you never quite know how things will work until users have it.

I think it’s incredibly popular. We know users want it, and like lots of other things that work cross-games, technically, it’s complicated. But it’s definitely something we’re looking at.

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For US Subscribers of Netflix, the application will finally make its way to the PlayStation 3 system next month. With the timed exclusive deal with Microsoft over, last week Netflix hinted at expanding there services further. Check the press release  below.

COMING SOON: NETFLIX MEMBERS CAN INSTANTLY WATCH MOVIES AND TV EPISODES STREAMED TO TVs VIA THE PLAYSTATION®3 COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

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

FOSTER CITY and LOS GATOS, Calif., October 26, 2009 – 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®3 (PS3™) 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®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™ 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.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation® and PS one® game consoles, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system, the ground-breaking PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system and its digital services which include the PlayStation®Network and the PlayStation®Store.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one® game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, and the PlayStation 3 and PSP systems for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

About Netflix, Inc.

Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) is the world’s largest online movie rental service, with more than more than 11 million subscribers. For only $8.99 a month, Netflix members can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streamed to their TVs and computers and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes. There are never any due dates or late fees. Netflix members can exchange DVDs as often as they want using a postage-paid return envelope. Members can choose from a vast selection of DVD titles and a growing library of movies and TV episodes that can be watched instantly. Netflix is partnering with leaders in consumer electronics to bring to market a range of devices that can instantly stream movies and TV episodes from Netflix directly to members’ TVs. These devices currently include Blu-ray disc players and new Internet TVs from LG Electronics; Blu-ray disc players from Samsung and Best Buy’s Insignia brand; the Roku digital video player; Microsoft’s Xbox 360 game console; TiVo digital video recorders; and, soon, the PS3 system and Internet TVs from Sony and VIZIO.

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The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 3.01 is now live.  You probably won’t notice any difference apart the freezing issue that happened with a few games such as Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune.

Also, you arent’t forced to download this update.

The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 3.00 is now live and is the next major update for the Playstation 3. So, what can you expect in this update? One of the many additions is animated themes, but take a look at the change list below.

• Multi-Audio – Audio can now be output to multiple connectors simultaneously. You can set this option under [Settings] > [Sound Settings] > [Audio Multi Output].
• Video Content Playback – During Video content playback, you can now use the right stick to play content in slow playback, fast reverse, and fast forward.
• Settings Descriptions – Now below each setting option under the Settings tab on the XMB, there is now a brief description in small font.
• New Start Up Logo – Upon starting up your PS3, you will be greeted with the new ‘PS3′ Logo.
• Copy/Paste Function – There is now a copy/paste function for the web browser, and messages.
• Internet Connection Speed Test – Check your internet connection upload/download speed. Go to [Network Settings] > [Internet Connection Test]
• Internet Browser Screen Capture Feature – Press Triangle on Internet Browser, then under File > Save Screenshot.
• Custom Remote Play Settings – Manually set a device (such as a PSP system) to be used for remote play.
• New Avatar Support – Support for future additions of PSN avatars has been added. No new avatars have been added along with the firmware. However the support is there.
• “What’s New” – The “Information Board” will be replaced with a “What’s New” section, which allows you to enjoy interactive PlayStation news every time you start the PS3 system. Located under the PlayStation Network icon, “What’s New” displays the latest and greatest game, video, PlayStation Network and PlayStation news and releases, as well as your recently played games, in a sleek, new animated format.
• Status Indicator – In the top right corner we’ve added an indicator bar, which displays your user icon, friend icon, the number of friends you have online and a small message icon to let you know if you have any new messages. The indicator also includes a scrolling ticker that features the latest news from PlayStation Network. In addition, when you press the PS button, the battery life indicator will no longer cover up the clock.
• Friends List – Now your PlayStation Network friends will appear in a slightly redesigned format on your Friends List. Also, messages will now be viewable from each of your friends’ respective profiles.
• PlayStation Store Shortcuts – We’ve added a handy shortcut icon to the PlayStation Store under both the Game and Video categories so you can access the latest content quickly and easily.
• Personalization – Personalize your PS3 with new dynamic custom themes and avatars. Dynamic themes as well as free and premium avatars will be available through PlayStation Store. A dynamic theme takes your screen to a whole new level as it incorporates animated objects into the background.
• Trophies – Showcasing your hard earned trophies just got better. Update 3.00 gives game developers the ability to modify how they display trophies for add-on content. Base and add-on game trophies will continue to be combined into a single list so you can see where you stand in a game as a whole. Within that list, trophies will be broken out into subcategories—base trophies and add-on trophies—that way, you can easily view the percentage of your base game trophy collection, and separately track your trophy progress in add-on packs. Look for this enhancement to be included in upcoming games.

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The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 3.00 has been announced and yesterday we told you all about what’s new and the features it will bring.

Today we would like to show you a video we found over on Daily Motion that shows the new features in action. Check it out.

The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 2.80 has been announced officially by Sony’s Eric Lempel, Director, PlayStation Network Operations.

This is what he has to say:

Hello, I just wanted to provide everyone with a head’s up that the next PLAYSTATION 3 system software update (v2.80) will be coming soon. The playback quality of some PLAYSTATION 3 format software has been improved.

We will report back when the update is live.

[UPDATE] Firmware 2.80 is now live.

The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 2.76 is now live. When you attempt to play a game online or access the Playstation Store you will be prompted to donwload this update.

What does it do? This is a minor update that improves the playback quality of some PS3 format software.

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According to Sony Ireland, Firmware 2.7 will be released on the 2nd of April 2009. Here’s what Sony have to say on the matter:-

With mounting speculation as to exactly when PS3 firmware version 2.70 will be released we can now reveal to you that our sources at Sony Ireland have given us a confirmation date.

April 2nd Will be the date that every Ps3 gamer will now be looking forward to.
Stay tuned for more as the official Announcement and images is made on Monday 30th March.

Here’s a screenshot.

What do you think of this?

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The PS3 System Software Update Firmware Version 2.60 is now live. Just a quick post to give you the headsup. Check out our previous post regarding this firmware update.

Following the latest firmware announcement for the PlayStation Portable, Eric Lempel also announced the arrival of firmware 2.60 for the PlayStation 3. In this firmware the biggest additions are guest logins onto the PlayStation store and Divx 3.11 support.

But that’s not the only thing the update will include. Also included is a new Photo Gallery application. With this SCE is really focusing on getting the media side of the console to a proper level.
Digital pictures can be organized in groups according to various criteria, including the camera used to take the photos, the event date and time, colors in the photos, as well as the number, ages, or facial expressions of the people pictured. You can also create slideshows set to music and build photo playlists with an easy-to-use interface.

To use the application you will need to install it separately from the XMB after the update, just like with PlayStation Home and Life with PlayStation.

And with this announcement the PSN ID required login has gone active but it seems it’s still having some issue. People’s original blog nickname are still being shown instead of their PSN ID. According to Eric Lempel their working on it.

We hope the firmware has more features (including the cosmetic error of the battery icon over the clock) and fixes.

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Eric Lempel announced on the official PlayStation Blog that the PlayStation Portable will receive a firmware update very soon. It’s a small one to fix some security issues and improve system software stability during use of some features.

After an unspoken delay firmware 2.53 has finally hit the update servers. On the list of expected changed/fixes we can find Full-screen mode playability and Live movie (using RTMP format) playability (ie. Youtube ect) in this update.

This brings the browser one step closer to overtaking the PC for some people. Who want to be able to do everything from behind their PS3.

So did they implement most of the features which were spread onto the internet? Well the install did take long for such a small update compared to what we are used. But most of those named updates were already in firmware 2.52

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