Sony Q&A Sheds Lights On PlayStation 3, Blu-ray

A detailed PlayStation 3-related Q&A allegedly created by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe for use at May's E3 Expo in Los Angeles has made its way to the Internet via French website Virtual Dreams. While much of the document simply reiterates already known information, since it was used for briefing purposes to educate those speaking to the media, it does shed light on Sony's intentional positioning of the PlayStation 3 as a computer, as opposed to a console, as well as upgradability and internet-connected Blu-ray features. Concerning the concept of the PlayStation 3 as a computer, rather than just a console focused on playing video games, the document noted that the PlayStation3 “is being positioned as a computer system, and not a computer entertainment system. Like other computer systems, it can be upgraded through the use of readily available industry standard adaptors.” The document added that this is the reasoning behind the two separate hardware SKUs, which represent “two initial configurations of PS3, not two versions”, further revealing Sony's PR stance on the matter. With regards to the ability to upgrade the PlayStation 3, the document noted that in a similar fashion to a traditional computer, it will be possible to add additional hardware to the console. Specifically, the Q&A noted that it will be possible to “upgrade the hard disk to any industry standard Serial-ATA 2.5" HDD.” In addition, SCEE noted in the document that owners of the lower end 20GB PlayStation 3 configuration who wish to use the Memory Stick/SD Memory Card/Compact Flash slots or Wi-Fi 802.11 PSP connection can “make use of widely available USB wireless LAN adaptors and other industry standard adaptors.” The company noted that the only feature that users will not be able to add to the lower end model will be the HDMI slot, which will come standard on the 60GB configuration. Referring to the new Blu-ray next generation disc format, which will be used for the first time in the PlayStation 3, SCEE noted that the console will feature full "BD Live" capability, which it clarified as the “ability to access the internet from within the disc and download additional content to the player's internal memory.” The company added that this capability will be extended to include the ability to connect to the internet and access "web-enabled" interactive features while playing a movie.