We always knew the PS3 was more than just a console and now it’s adding another reason to have pride of place under your TV: the PlayTV, a combined TV tuner and Personal Video Recorder (PVR).
The twin channel TV tuner and PVR software transforms the PS3 into a console capable of displaying, pausing, and recording live TV. Taking a leaf out of the Sky+ playbook you’ll be able to record individual programmes and even a whole series, straight to the PS3 hard drive. These programmes can then be viewed later on the TV or they can be transferred to the PSP for viewing at work, when you should be earning the money to pay off the loan you took out for the PS3.
The addon operates on the Digital Video Broadcasting – Terrestrial (DVB-T) format, and also incorporates a 7-day programme guide to make recording all those excellent America shows all the more easy. Anyone found to be recording Corrie or Eastenders will have their PSN account terminated and their PS3 will be fried remotely so that it never works again.
Here’s some hyperbole explaining why it’s so good:
· PlayTV’s two TV tuners are High Definition ready and are able to view, record and play back High Definition signals in full HD1080P to fully complement PS3’s already impressive High Definition credentials.
· Unlike the electronic programme guides found on conventional satellite and cable services, PlayTV’s EPG is lightning fast, and simple to use with either PS3’s SIXAXIS™ wireless controller or the BD remote control to really enhance viewing pleasure.
· Intuitive controls, single button help features, tutorial videos and simple navigation make PlayTV a positive joy to use compared with the complexity of some standalone PVR models.
· Seamless connectivity with PSP allows you to set recordings, watch Live TV and recorded TV programmes remotely on PSP via a Wi-Fi connection (using Remote Play feature). Alternatively, quickly transcode recorded TV shows for high quality viewing to PSP by USB cable for remote viewing away from the home.
· Optional on-screen graphical display provides a wealth of information about the status of PlayTV and provides quick access to programme information, stored TV programmes and the controls to pause or record live TV. PlayTV will also set the correct interface for either Standard Definition or High Definition displays, maximising the viewing experience.
· PlayTV will evolve with time, with great added value functionality being updated via PLAYSTATION®Network; a feature that sets it above all other set top boxes. PlayTV will never be out of date.
It’s due to be launched in early 2008 in the UK, France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, and other PAL territories will follow on from there.
This is an excellent addition to the PS3’s arsenal of functionality. Along with our Sky+ box, we’re going to have so much stuff to watch we’ll never be able to update the site again.