PlayStation 3 owners will soon be able to view both ITV Player and Channel 4’s 4oD service directly from their PlayStation 3 consoles. The new PS3 applications will be launching to users with broadband connections and will be the first commercial TV video content that can be watched via the PS3. This move is set to significantly enhance the multimedia capabilities of the PlayStation 3, making it not just a gaming console but a comprehensive entertainment hub.
ITV and Channel 4 are following in the footsteps of the BBC, which launched its iPlayer application on the PS3 last year. The success of the BBC iPlayer on the PS3 has likely paved the way for other broadcasters to see the potential in offering their content on this platform.
Expanding Entertainment Options
The inclusion of ITV Player and Channel 4’s 4oD on the PlayStation 3 is a significant development for users who are looking to consolidate their entertainment options. With these new applications, users will have access to a wide range of TV shows, series, and exclusive content directly from their gaming console. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer on-demand viewing and want to catch up on missed episodes without the need for additional devices.
The new distribution deal with Sony marks a shift in strategy for ITV, after the previous management regime under Michael Grade was reluctant to offer ITV shows online via other companies’ products and services. This change in approach indicates a recognition of the growing importance of digital platforms and the need to reach audiences where they are most active.
ITV has already rejected deals with YouTube and Hulu, and until now, it had made its catch-up TV service only available on Virgin Media, BT Vision, and the soon-to-be-added Freesat. By partnering with Sony, ITV is expanding its reach and making its content more accessible to a broader audience. This move is likely to attract more viewers who are already using their PS3 for gaming and other media consumption.
Implications for the Future
The addition of ITV Player and 4oD to the PlayStation 3 could have broader implications for the future of television and gaming. As more broadcasters see the value in offering their content on gaming consoles, we could see a trend where gaming devices become central to home entertainment systems. This convergence of gaming and television could lead to new forms of interactive content and cross-platform experiences that blend gaming and traditional media.
Moreover, this development highlights the importance of broadband connectivity in modern entertainment. With high-speed internet becoming more widespread, the ability to stream high-quality video content on-demand is becoming a standard expectation for consumers. This trend is likely to continue, with more services and applications being developed to take advantage of the capabilities of modern gaming consoles.
The launch of ITV Player and Channel 4’s 4oD on the PlayStation 3 is a significant step forward in the evolution of home entertainment. It not only enhances the value of the PS3 as a multifunctional device but also reflects broader trends in the media landscape towards digital and on-demand content. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to consume and interact with media in the future.
Via Eurogamer
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