Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) has revealed that the next PlayStation 3 system software update, v.2.20, will include BD-Live functionality, offering consumers access to a wide variety of features including downloadable content, phone ringtones and more.
Scheduled for release later this month, the update will also allow users to copy PS3 music and photo playlists to their PlayStation Portable console. V.2.20 requires at least 1GB of local storage space.
Scott Steinberg, Vice President of Product Marketing for SCEA, commented, "With Blu-ray established as the high-definition optical disc standard, more consumers are ready to jump in and take advantage of everything the format offers.”
"Whether you want to download movie extras, send ringtones to your phone, or play interactive games, BD-LIVE will offer exciting new ways to enjoy a Blu-ray movie. With these regular firmware updates and future-proofed technology, SCEA is making the 10-year lifecycle of PS3 possible."
Further updates included with v.2.20 are as follows:
— "Resume play" will enable PS3 system to start playing a Blu-ray disc
and DVD at the point it was stopped, even if the disc had been
removed. (*1)
— "Audio Output Device" will be a new Remote Play setting, enabling PSP
to serve as a remote control for music played through PS3.
— PS3 system’s Internet browser will be enhanced: Video files directly
linked from a Web page will be able to be streamed, and the browser’s
view speed will be improved.
— DivX and WMV format videos that are larger than 2GB will be playable.
— "Mosquito Noise Reduction" will be added as an AV setting in the
control panel of the DVD/BD player for improved movie playback. (*2)