IBM Claims Easy Learning Curve For Cell Processor

Speaking at a press event last Friday, representatives from IBM have commented on the Cell processor being used in the PlayStation 3 console – claiming that it will be considerably easier to program for than the PlayStation 2. According to reports from tech site CNET News, researcher H. Peter Hofstee commented: "We're very much aware of the need to balance between innovation in architecture and the ability to leverage that innovation. The learning curve for this platform should be significantly better than previous ones." The company also reiterated plans to begin test production of Cell chips in early 2005, with workstation PCs using the technology expected to go on sale later in the year. The PlayStation 3, it is widely assumed, will be launched in Japan in the spring of 2006. As Hofstee points out the benefit of having both workstations and consoles using the same technology will be considerable, and should further Sony’s stated goals to offer developers a new format that does not suffer from the steep learning curve of the PlayStation 2.