FOSTER CITY, Calif., Nov. 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC (SCEA) today announced that on-demand movie service VUDU™ will launch on PlayStation®Network in the United States with an application that allows for High Definition (HD) and Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 surround sound streaming to the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system. VUDU delivers a massive library of movies to the PS3 system in true 1080p HD format, providing another choice for PS3 users to experience cinema-quality entertainment in the comfort of their living rooms. When the VUDU application launches on November 23, 2010, the PS3 system will be the first and only system with dedicated gaming functionality to offer this service. This partnership further establishes PlayStation Network as the complete home entertainment hub, which includes the latest in gaming, movies, television shows, sports, original programming, internet browsing and social networking.
Using the VUDU streaming movie service, PS3 owners will be able to conveniently and instantly access more than 4,000 HD movies from all major Hollywood studios on-demand, including new releases available the same day they are released to DVD or Blu-ray Disc. The VUDU streaming movie service also offers great value to PS3 households, with an enormous collection of titles available for only $2 for a two night rental.
“PlayStation has long been the leader in providing living room entertainment. PlayStation Network has emerged as the industry leading entertainment hub for experiencing an unmatched amount of digital content,” said Susan Panico, senior director, PlayStation Network. “With the addition of the VUDU application to our free PlayStation Network, users will have another way to access entertainment, with thousands of HD movies available instantly in the comfort of their own home.”
“PS3 is tailor-made for the high-quality, high-speed VUDU streaming experience,” said Edward Lichty, general manager, VUDU. “Now with VUDU on PS3, we are able to deliver a completely immersive experience to those loyal to their entertainment system when they want, where they want.”
Customers that have a free PlayStation Network account can download the VUDU application in the “Media” category on PlayStation®Store and then access it under the “Video” icon on the XMB™ (XrossMediaBar) menu. New VUDU customers receive a $5.99 credit, enabling them to watch their first HD movie on the service for free.