One of the benefits of accessing Netflix streaming through Xbox 360 are the updates Microsoft and Netflix have delivered to the interface and feature set. The addition of group streaming, genre lists and adding movies from your Xbox 360 were welcomed, and most of those were carried over into the the recently launched disc-based version of Netflix streaming for PlayStation 3. Unfortunately, it looks like PlayStation 3 users will have to become accustomed to that interface for a little while yet.
When asked if Netflix and Sony had the ability to update and alter the Netflix interface for PlayStation 3 users based on feedback, Netflix was immediately coy.
"Late next year we expect to have an embedded solution available for PS3s via a system software update slated for release through the PlayStation Network," said Netflix VP of corp. communications Steve Swasey in an e-mailed statement to me. "Until then, enjoy watching instantly via your PS3 using the instant streaming disc!"
That didn't answer my question, I told him. Can the interface be changed?
"Using the disc is how you’ll watch movies until then," responded Swasey.
I took the hint.
Until Netflix becomes an embedded part of the PlayStation 3 in the latter half of 2010 -- a date rumored to have been picked because it falls after Netflix's exclusivity agreement with Microsoft -- the interface will likely remain the same. Netflix would have to send new discs to make any changes. Right now, it doesn't cost a dime to receive a Blu-ray disc enabling Netflix support on your PlayStation 3.
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Comments
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uberginsu
Its August 2010 still having to use the disk... it should be called the netflix blue-ray exercise disk!
jaksmakndaxter
No problems with mine at all. I don't mind using a disc to stream,especially after I know the reason why,even though I won't say no to an app on my system. -Interrupting my comment for a second, I didn't see anywhere in this article where G4 is ripping the PS3;can't speak on other articles right now- I'm just glad to be able to use a great service like Netflix,so I will put up with the disc as long as I need to.
Zaihaku
I don't mind the disk.. I can wait for the update :)
radion_null
So... ??? I Was Netflix in need to go to PS3 or did Sony ask Netflix? Who needed to rush the product now instead of waiting until next year for the integrated app on the XMB?
KennyPowers
I think everyone needs to stop crying. Used it the day after the disc was release. No problems whatsoever on my HARD WIRED CONNECTION. it even shows what movies can be streamed in HD. No pixelation or lag or anything of the sort.
Me
blaksinger
how about support in the great white north? Canadians like movies too!
mittens1231
I have a puppy named charles!
Wildcard273
How do you tell which movies are in HD or not? I watched Bolt on Friday and it was a little "fuzzy" and it appeared to be a recording from Starz. But I watched Big Lebowski after that and it was fine.
saulpimpson
I actually like the ps3 interface more than the 360. the R2 and L2 buttons skips you back and forth 7 movies like a page skip button. i also like that it's a little easier to see which movies are in HD. i also think the interface looks a little more grown up if that makes any sense. and it seems like HD movies look a good bit sharper on my ps3. but i don't like the stretching of standard def shows and movies.
it's also easier for my wife to use because she knows how to play a DVD on the PS3 but is scared of the 360 for some reason.
Browns4Ever
I still have'nt got my disc yet NOT HAPPY and yea it does seem g4 likes to rip on ps3 more so then 360 now i have both consoles but i diffently prefer my ps3, maybe g4 should be more even on there complaints
XXXSpartan118XXX
Its the HDMI on Ps3 compared to the composite on Xbox. I dont even care about systems anyway. waste of time.
bradleyquist
*I forgot to add that the grainy look is gone with the PS3.
bradleyquist
Dood, I've been streaming Netflix on my 360 for quite a while now and I've loved it. This weekend I threw in my PS3 disc and, although I was saddened by the interface, the video quality was much better. I've been watching Heroes and Friday Night Lights and both have always looked a little grainy. I don't know if it's the HDMI cable on PS3 versus the component cable on the 360, but the PS3 definitely looks better and will be my Netflix streaming console from here on out.
Notafanboythatiknow
I do not have Netfilx nor I am interested in it. But if I was, I would not have any problem popping a disc to my PS3. People need to get from the couch to eat and go to the restroom anyways.
RandyMercer
I knew it was gonna be something like that due to the exclusivity, I don't care eventually they'll the "thingy" interface but not now I think ppl with a PS3 are happy hardcore 360 fan-boys are gonna criticize.
furiousgeorge
The interface isn't very attractive like the 360 version, and it's just a little more difficult to navigate. It still does it's job. If you only have a PS3 it's better then nothing. It seems a little more pixelated but that could be the movie quality or the internet connection.
RomeasaurusRex
Is it sad that i haven't even bought my ps3 yet and i signed up for streaming on my netflix account?
Mertz523
My roomies and I have experienced no problems whatsoever. I do love the ability to stream, but adding movies via computer then popping the disc in is a little annoying. I can manage though. It's better than not having it at all. Heroes in HD looked great!
chocosquirrel
I tried the PS3 Netflix out this weekend and it worked pretty good. I dont care to much about adding movies on my system as it is much easier to add them on their website. I also found that LOST in HD looks slightly better on my PS3. Not really sure why since both systems are hooked up with HDMI.
JimOfTroy
The one thing that drives me nuts in on the Netflix site there is no indication of which movies stream in HD. The only way is to scan through the HD genre, which is 16 pages, but if I add a movie to the streaming queue from anywhere else there is no way to tell if it can stream in HD until I get on my PS3. You'd think that would be noted in the formats or something.
Otherwise I like it so far. Had very little trouble, except a little pixelation here and there and my hatred of 4:3 movies stretched to fit 16:9
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