Amazon Instant Video streaming comes to PlayStation 3
Sony's console adds Amazon's video streaming service, IPTV could still be on the table
Amazon and Sony Computer Entertainment have announced that Amazon Instant Video is now available on PlayStation 3. This marks the first home console to feature Amazon's streaming service, and both companies have signed an agreement to feature the app heavily on PS3's and the PlayStation Store.
Amazon Prime members have access to 17,000 television shows and movies, including Glee, Downton Abbey, Sons of Anarchy and other content from providers like Viacom, ABC, and Fox. Non-Prime members can access the same content during a free one-month trial, but that after that they need to pony up $79.99. The Amazon Instant Video service also offers another 120,000 movies and television shows for purchase or rental. To celebrate the launch of the service, Amazon is offering the first episode of over 100 shows to Prime and Non-Prime users.
"We're always looking for new ways to expand the digital entertainment offerings across PlayStation Network, and we're thrilled to be the first game console to deliver Amazon Instant Video to our community," said Jack Buser, senior director of PlayStation Digital Platforms, SCEA. "Working with Amazon is a prime example of our commitment to providing our community with a wealth of options so they can experience entertainment the way they want."
Buser told The Verge that Sony is not ruling out IPTV in the future. He also explained that Sony is tailoring the PlayStation video experience towards its current userbase, not a wider audience.
"Never say never," he said, though he later added, "there's nothing to discuss at this time."
"We wouldn't get really excited about bringing Oprah to the PlayStation audience, but rather MLB TV, or Netflix, or Vudu, where we can provide a really differentiated and unique experience."