The PlayStation 3 is now the primary development platform for Netflix and is the world’s most popular device for viewing the streaming service’s movies and TV shows on a television. That’s according to an announcement today from Sony Computer Entertainment America and Netflix. The PS3 was the first entertainment system to offer Netflix in full 1080p with 5.1-channel Dolby Digital Plus surround sound and to offer post play, second screen controls, on device sign-up, and alternate audio options. In other words, Netflix on PS3 is a beast.
"The PlayStation and Netflix communities both share a strong passion for high quality entertainment," said Jack Tretton, CEO and President of SCEA, in a statement. "Netflix provides a fantastic experience for watching TV shows and movies on PS3, and our joint development will continue to produce innovations for our customers that further demonstrate PS3 as the true home for entertainment in the living room."
Netflix has more than 30 million members globally and on PS3 it’s the only platform to experience a new voice user interface called "Max" that’s currently being tested. In addition, Netflix expanded to PlayStation Vita in the U.S. earlier this year.
"PS3 is our largest TV-connected platform in terms of Netflix viewing, and this year, at times, even surpassed the PC in hours of Netflix enjoyment to become our No. 1 platform overall," said Netflix Chief Executive Officer Reed Hastings. "PS3 is a natural fit for Netflix in terms of developing and first deploying our most advanced features. We can transparently update our application with new features on a daily basis, and through the free PlayStation Network, people around the world can sign up for Netflix directly from their PS3."