Sony to Bring TV Programming to PS3, PSP

Sony disclosed more information about its joint venture in the UK and Ireland with British Sky Broadcasting to bring video downloads to its popular handheld system, as well as a DVR device to bring television programming to the PS3 and PSP.

Called ‘Go!,’ the service will launch in early 2008 and be the first service of its kind in Europe. Programs available include sports, entertainment, movies, music and animation from Sky, as well as third-party content pending deals with other entertainment providers.

Another product called PlayTV works much like a digital video recorder and allows the user to record television and then transfer it to either the PS3 or PSP. Both products were debuted at a gaming convention in Germany on Wednesday.

The user interface and application will be developed mostly by Sky, while Sony takes care of the marketing aspects. “This really will make PSP the standout all-in-one portable gaming, video and music device", Sony’s Computer Entertainment Europe president David Reeves said.

PlayTV on the other hand, allows users to record any programming from television they wish. It includes two high-definition TV tuners and DVR software to record the programming. It uses the Digital Video Broadcasting technology to access programs.

Sony has high hopes that launching products making the PlayStation 3 more of an entertainment unit rather than just gaming device will help its fortunes overall. As of June, the console sold about 4.3 million units, half that of the Wii, and well behind Microsoft’s 11.6 million Xbox 360s.