PlayStation 3#Launch

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Development of the PlayStation 3 began on March 9, 2001, when Sony Computer Entertainment president Ken Kutaragi announced a partnership with Toshiba and IBM to develop the Cell microprocessor.{{Cite news |date=June 30, 2013 |title=Mark Cerny frankly recounts Sony's mistakes with the PlayStation 3 |url=https://venturebeat.com/2013/06/30/a-frank-recounting-of-the-mistakes-sony-made-with-the-playstation-3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180713015933/https://venturebeat.com/2013/06/30/a-frank-recounting-of-the-mistakes-sony-made-with-the-playstation-3/ |archive-date=July 13, 2018 |access-date=July 12, 2018 |work=VentureBeat}} Around the same time, Shuhei Yoshida led a team focused on exploring next-generation game development. By early 2005, Sony shifted its focus toward preparing PS3 launch titles.

In September 2004, Sony confirmed that the PlayStation 3 would use Blu-ray as its primary media format, with support for DVDs and CDs.{{cite web |last1=Dunham |first1=Jeremy |date=21 September 2004 |title=Kutaragi Confirms PS3 Info |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/549/549950p1.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040923032251/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/549/549950p1.html |archive-date=23 September 2004 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=IGN |publisher=IGN Entertainment, Inc.}} Nvidia was announced as the partner for the console's graphics processing unit in December 2004.{{cite web |last1=Dunham |first1=Jeremy |date=7 December 2004 |title=Sony Announces PS3 GPU |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/571/571460p1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041209051357/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/571/571460p1.html |archive-date=9 December 2004 |access-date=4 November 2023 |website=IGN.com |publisher=IGN Entertainment, Inc.}} The PS3 was officially unveiled on May 16, 2005, at E3,{{cite web |last=Sulic |first=Ivan |date=May 16, 2005 |title=E3 2005: PS3 Official |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/05/16/e3-2005-ps3-official |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071007084818/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/614/614619p1.html |archive-date=October 7, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN |df=mdy-all}} alongside a prototype of the Sixaxiscontroller featuring a boomerang-shaped design.{{cite web |date=May 16, 2005 |title=E3 2005: PlayStation 3 – The ("boomerang") Controller |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/05/17/e3-2005-playstation-3-the-controller |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110106180832/http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/614/614736p1.html |archive-date=January 6, 2011 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |publisher=IGN Entertainment, Inc}} No working hardware was present at E3 or at the Tokyo Game Show in September,{{cite web |date=May 17, 2005 |title=Sony E3 2005 press conference video |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/05/17/e3-2005-sony-press-conference |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071211193018/http://media.ps3.ign.com/articles/615/615091/vids_1.html |archive-date=December 11, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN |df=mdy-all}} though demonstrations such as Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots{{cite web |date=September 15, 2005 |title=TGS 2005 booth round-up |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=6554 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081222004930/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=6554 |archive-date=December 22, 2008 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |website=Gamasutra |df=mdy-all}} were shown running on software development kits and comparable PC hardware. Sony also showcased concept footage based on projected system specifications, including a Final Fantasy VII tech demo.{{cite web |last=Allen |first=Jason |date=May 15, 2005 |title=E3 2005: Eyes-on the Final Fantasy VII Tech Demo |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/05/17/e3-2005-eyes-on-the-final-fantasy-vii-tech-demo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120209002255/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/614/614859p1.html |archive-date=February 9, 2012 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN}}

File:PS3s and controllers at E3 2006.jpg

The 2005 prototype included two HDMI ports, three Ethernet ports and six USB ports,{{cite web |date=May 16, 2005 |title=PlayStation 3 announced for 2006 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/05/16/news_6124681.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110804220936/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6124681/playstation-3-announced-for-2006 |archive-date=August 4, 2011 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |website=GameSpot |df=mdy-all}} but by E3 2006, these had been reduced to one HDMI, one Ethernet, and four USB ports to cut costs.{{cite web |date=May 24, 2006 |title=IGN: E3 2006: The final word on PlayStation |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/05/25/e3-2006-the-final-word-on-playstation |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070813085038/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/709/709973p1.html |archive-date=August 13, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN |df=mdy-all}}{{cite web |date=March 26, 2007 |title=IGN's Official PlayStation 3 FAQ |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/07/27/igns-official-playstation-3-faq |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070409070759/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/636/636848p1.html |archive-date=April 9, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |publisher=IGN}} Sony also announced two launch models: a 60 GB version at {{US$|599.99}} / {{JPY|60,000}} / {{€|599.99}}

{{Multiref|{{cite web |date=January 24, 2007 |title=SCEE official press release |url=http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4317&NewsAreaID=2 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080119221144/http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4317&NewsAreaID=2 |archive-date=January 19, 2008 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment Europe}}|{{Cite web |date=January 24, 2007 |title=PlayStation 3 launches March 23 in Europe, 425 |url=https://www.engadget.com/2007/01/24/playstation-3-launches-march-23-in-europe-425/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180901113349/https://www.engadget.com/2007/01/24/playstation-3-launches-march-23-in-europe-425/ |archive-date=September 1, 2018 |access-date=September 1, 2018}}|{{cite web |date=2007-01-24 |title=Sony Confirms PS3 Euro Launch Details |url=http://www.edge-online.com/news/sony-confirms-ps3-euro-launch-deta |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121141727/http://www.edge-online.com/news/sony-confirms-ps3-euro-launch-deta |archive-date=2012-01-21 |access-date=2008-01-14 |publisher=Edge-Online}}}} and a 20 GB version at {{US$|499.99}} / {{JPY|49,980}} / {{€|499.99}}.{{Multiref|{{cite news |date=November 17, 2006 |title=Sony's PS3 makes U.S. debut |url=https://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-11-17-ps3-debut_x.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080308233638/http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-11-17-ps3-debut_x.htm |archive-date=March 8, 2008 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |newspaper=USA Today |df=mdy-all}} | {{cite news |date=November 13, 2006 |title=PlayStation 3 hits 'grey market' |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/6142576.stm |access-date=May 14, 2024 |newspaper=BBC News |df=mdy-all}}}} To further reduce costs, the 60 GB model was to be the only configuration to feature HDMI output, Wi-Fi, flash card readers and chrome trim. It was scheduled to launch on November 11, 2006 in Japan and November 17, 2006 in North America and Europe.{{cite web |date=May 9, 2006 |title=Sony PlayStation 3 launch details |url=https://arstechnica.com/old/content/2006/05/6781.ars |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090220200043/http://arstechnica.com/old/content/2006/05/6781.ars |archive-date=February 20, 2009 |access-date=January 18, 2008 |publisher=Arstechnica |df=mdy-all}}

On September 6, 2006, Sony delayed the PAL region launch to March 2007 due to a shortage of Blu-ray drive components, and announced it would not sell the 20 GB model in the region.{{cite news |date=September 6, 2006 |title=PlayStation 3 Euro launch delayed |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5319190.stm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080307022543/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/5319190.stm |archive-date=March 7, 2008 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=BBC |df=mdy-all}} Later that month at the Tokyo Game Show, Sony confirmed that it had decided to include HDMI output on the 20 GB model.{{cite web |date=September 23, 2006 |title=TGS 2006 – TGS 06: No US PS3 price drop; HDMI in 20 GB model |url=http://www.gamespot.com/downloads/6158499 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091017133918/http://www.gamespot.com/downloads/6158499 |archive-date=October 17, 2009 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |website=GameSpot}} The Japanese launch price for the 20 GB model was also reduced by more than 20%,{{cite web |last=Gantayat |first=Anoop |date=September 22, 2006 |title=TGS 2006: Price Drop For Japanese PS3 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/09/22/tgs-2006-price-drop-for-japanese-ps3 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070219045344/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/734/734349p1.html |archive-date=February 19, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |publisher=IGN PlayStation 3}} while the 60 GB model would be sold under an open pricing scheme. Sony showcased 27 playable titles running on final PS3 hardware at the event.{{cite web |date=August 16, 2006 |title=TGS 2006: PS3 to Take Over Tokyo |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/08/23/tgs-2006-ps3-to-take-over-tokyo |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061110074152/http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/727/727456p1.html |archive-date=November 10, 2006 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN}}

Despite the cost-cutting efforts, the PS3 would still be sold at a loss due to high component costs, including the GPU (estimated at US$129) and Blu-ray Disc drive (estimated at US$125). The 20 GB model was estimated to cost US$805.85 to manufacture, about US$307 more than its retail price, while the 60 GB model was estimated at US$840.35, or US$241 above its retail price.{{Cite magazine |last=Becker |first=David |date=2006-11-16 |title=Sony Losing Hundreds On Each PS3 |url=https://www.wired.com/2006/11/sony-losing-hun/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250420161509/https://www.wired.com/2006/11/sony-losing-hun/ |archive-date=2025-04-20 |access-date=2025-04-20 |magazine=Wired |language=en-US |issn=1059-1028}} Subsidizing the hardware contributed to SCE reporting an operating loss of ¥232 billion (approximately US$1.91 billion) for the fiscal year following the launch of the PS3.{{cite news |last=Takenaka |first=Kiyoshi |date=2007-08-04 |title=Nintendo Wii outsells Sony PS3 5-fold in Japan |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/technology/nintendo-wii-outsells-sony-ps3-5-fold-in-japan-idUST332955 |access-date=2025-04-20 |newspaper=Reuters}} Sony later acknowledged cumulative losses of about US$3.3 billion on the PS3 hardware through mid‑2008.{{cite magazine |last=Cavalli |first=Earnest |date=2008-06-05 |title=Sony Loses $3.3 Billion Since PlayStation 3 Launch |url=https://www.wired.com/2008/06/sony-loses-33-b |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241231170624/https://www.wired.com/2008/06/sony-loses-33-b/ |archive-date=2024-12-31 |access-date=2025-04-20 |magazine=Wired |issn=1059-1028}}

The PlayStation 3 was first released in Japan on November 11, 2006, selling over 81,000 units within 24 hours.{{cite news |date=November 11, 2006 |title=PS3 sells out at launch |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6135452.stm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071217190903/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/6135452.stm |archive-date=December 17, 2007 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=BBC |df=mdy-all}}{{cite web |date=November 14, 2006 |title=Japanese PS3 Sales Data Also Depressing |url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/sony/japanese-ps3-sales-data-also-depressing-214864.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071212205927/http://kotaku.com/gaming/sony/japanese-ps3-sales-data-also-depressing-214864.php |archive-date=December 12, 2007 |access-date=October 24, 2008 |publisher=Media Create Co. via Kotaku}} It launched in North America on November 17,{{cite news| url=https://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-11-17-ps3-debut_x.htm| title=Sony's PS3 makes U.S. debut| date=November 17, 2006| newspaper=USA Today| access-date=January 14, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080308233638/http://www.usatoday.com/tech/gaming/2006-11-17-ps3-debut_x.htm| archive-date=March 8, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} where demand was high and incidents of violence were reported at retail locations.{{cite web |title=Camping PlayStation gamers robbed at gunpoint |url=http://www.ocmodshop.com/news/displaygamingnews.asp?articleid=3275&zoneid=15 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080228152709/http://www.ocmodshop.com/news/displaygamingnews.asp?articleid=3275&zoneid=15 |archive-date=February 28, 2008 |access-date=November 17, 2006 |publisher=KMTR}}{{cite web |date=November 16, 2006 |title=Four People Shot While Waiting for PlayStation Console, Including 27 NEWSFIRST Reporter |url=http://www.wkyt.com/news/headlines/4661551.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061120023734/http://www.wkyt.com/news/headlines/4661551.html |archive-date=November 20, 2006 |access-date=November 17, 2006 |publisher=WKYT News}}{{Cite web |last=Augenstein |first=Neal |date=November 17, 2006 |title=PlayStation3 Crowd Gets More Than It Bargained for in Tysons |url=http://www.wtopnews.com/?nid=600&sid=978347 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070303123924/http://www.wtopnews.com/?nid=600&sid=978347 |archive-date=March 3, 2007 |access-date=November 17, 2006 |publisher=WTOP News}} The console was released the same day in Hong Kong and Taiwan.{{cite web |last=Jenkins |first=David |date=November 2, 2006 |title=Sony Confirms Hong Kong, Taiwan PS3 Launch |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/sony-confirms-hong-kong-taiwan-ps3-launch |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://gamasutra.com/view/news/102479/Sony_Confirms_Hong_Kong_Taiwan_PS3_Launch.php |archive-date=2021-10-08 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |work=Gamasutra.com}}{{cbignore}}

The console launched in Europe, Australia, and other PAL regions on March 23, 2007.{{Cite web |date=January 24, 2007 |title=PlayStation 3 launches March 23 in Europe, 425 |url=https://www.engadget.com/2007/01/24/playstation-3-launches-march-23-in-europe-425/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180901113349/https://www.engadget.com/2007/01/24/playstation-3-launches-march-23-in-europe-425/ |archive-date=September 1, 2018 |access-date=September 1, 2018}} It sold 600,000 units across Europe in its first two days,{{cite news |date=March 28, 2007 |title=Sony's PS3 has record launch in Europe |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/4a4dc0ee-dd67-11db-8d42-000b5df10621.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/4a4dc0ee-dd67-11db-8d42-000b5df10621.html |archive-date=2021-10-08 |accessdate=April 2, 2007 |publisher=Financial Times}}{{cbignore}} with 165,000 sold in the UK, making it the region’s fastest-selling home console at the time.{{cite news |date=March 26, 2007 |title=PlayStation 3 becomes UK's fastest-selling home system |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=23781 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012182901/http://gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=23781 |archivedate=October 12, 2007 |accessdate=April 2, 2007 |publisher=GamesIndustry}} Sales dropped sharply in the following weeks, with some retailers citing high price points and early cancellations.{{cite web |date=March 27, 2007 |title=Sony PS3 hit by £10m in cancellations |url=http://www.brandrepublic.com/BrandRepublicNews/News/646182/Sony-PS3-hit-10m-cancellations/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201155937/http://www.brandrepublic.com/BrandRepublicNews/News/646182/Sony-PS3-hit-10m-cancellations/ |archive-date=December 1, 2008 |accessdate=March 29, 2007 |publisher=BR}}[https://web.archive.org/web/20080611202402/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=23977 PlayStation 3 hardware sales plummet 82 per cent], Gamesindustry.biz{{cite web |last=Boxer |first=Steve |date=February 1, 2007 |title=PS3 launch price is no fun for UK gamers |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2007/feb/01/games.guardianweeklytechnologysection2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2007/feb/01/games.guardianweeklytechnologysection2 |archive-date=2021-10-08 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |work=The Guardian}}{{cbignore}}

The PS3 launched in other markets throughout 2007, including Singapore (March 7),{{cite web |date=March 8, 2007 |title=Singapore's PS3 launch party |url=http://asia.cnet.com/photogallery/0,3800005208,61994590-001p,00.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080219122620/http://asia.cnet.com/photogallery/0,3800005208,61994590-001p,00.htm |archive-date=February 19, 2008 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |website=CNET}} India (April 27),{{cite web |date=March 23, 2007 |title=Sony PlayStation 3 Launch In India Next Month; Price Rs 39,990 |url=https://gigaom.com/2007/03/23/419-sony-playstation-3-launch-in-india-next-month-price-rs-39990/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://gigaom.com/2007/03/23/419-sony-playstation-3-launch-in-india-next-month-price-rs-39990/ |archive-date=2021-10-08 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |website=Gigaom.com}}{{cbignore}} Mexico (April),{{cite web |last=Murray |first=J. |date=December 15, 2006 |title=PS3 launching at $974 in Mexico |url=https://www.engadget.com/2006-12-15-ps3-launching-at-974-in-mexico.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://www.engadget.com/2006-12-15-ps3-launching-at-974-in-mexico.html |archive-date=2021-10-08 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |work=Engadget}}{{cbignore}} and South Korea (June 16).{{cite web |title=PlayStation 3 (80 GB) Korean |url=http://www.playstation.co.kr/ps_community/com_news_view.sce?sid=8942 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070523054842/http://www.playstation.co.kr/ps_community/com_news_view.sce?sid=8942 |archive-date=May 23, 2007 |access-date=January 18, 2008 |publisher=SCEI}} Sony often hosted promotional events or offered bundled content in these regions to drive interest.{{cite news |date=February 1, 2007 |title=Sony finalises Middle East PS3 launch date |url=https://www.arabianbusiness.com/sony-finalises-middle-east-ps3-launch-date-149486.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://www.arabianbusiness.com/sony-finalises-middle-east-ps3-launch-date-149486.html |archive-date=2021-10-08 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |work=Arabian Business}}{{cbignore}}{{cite web |date=February 13, 2007 |title=Hard-Core Gamers Drive Gray Console Sales |url=https://www.arabnews.com/node/294375 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://www.arabnews.com/node/294375 |archive-date=2021-10-08 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |work=Arab News}}{{cbignore}}

Following months of speculation, Sony officially unveiled the "Slim" hardware revision (model CECH-2000) on August 18, 2009, during its Gamescom press conference,{{cite news |date=August 18, 2009 |title=Entertainment on PS3 has a new look |url=http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229653/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090821173909/http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229653/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/ |archive-date=August 21, 2009 |access-date=August 18, 2009 |publisher=PlayStation UK}}{{cite news |date=August 18, 2009 |title=Sony Announces Slim PS3 – It Lives This September! |url=http://kotaku.com/5339968/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090821080924/http://kotaku.com/5339968/ |archive-date=August 21, 2009 |access-date=August 18, 2009 |work=Kotaku}} and it was released in major territories by September 2009. This model featured a significantly slimmer and lighter chassis, reduced power consumption, and a quieter cooling system. These improvements were made possible in part by transitioning to smaller fabrication processes for the system's CPU and GPU.{{cite web |date=August 18, 2009 |title=Sony answers our questions about the new PlayStation 3 |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/08/sony-answers-our-questions-about-the-new-playstation-3.ars |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090820035753/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/08/sony-answers-our-questions-about-the-new-playstation-3.ars |archive-date=August 20, 2009 |access-date=August 19, 2009 |website=Ars Technica}} The manufacturing changes reportedly reduced production costs by about 70 percent.{{cite web |last=Thorsen |first=Tor |date=2009-08-05 |title=PS3 manufacturing costs down around 70% |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/ps3-manufacturing-costs-down-around-70/1100-6214569/ |website=GameSpot}} Nevertheless, due to the console’s simultaneous price reduction to US$299, Sony was still estimated to be losing around US$37 per unit at launch,{{Cite web |last=Terdiman |first=Daniel |date=2009-12-11 |title=Report: PS3 design cost finally nearing break-even |url=https://www.cnet.com/news/report-ps3-design-cost-finally-nearing-break-even/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140925191956/https://www.cnet.com/news/report-ps3-design-cost-finally-nearing-break-even/ |archive-date=2014-09-25 |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=CNET}} with losses per unit reduced to approximately US$18 by early 2010.{{Cite web |last=Reisinger |first=Don |date=2010-02-05 |title=Sony still losing on every PlayStation 3 it sells |url=https://www.cnet.com/home/smart-home/sony-still-losing-on-every-playstation-3-it-sells/ |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=CNET |language=en}}

Sony announced the "Super Slim" hardware revision (model CECH-4000) in September 2012, which launched in major markets later that year.{{cite web |last=Paul |first=Ian |date=September 19, 2012 |title=New PlayStation 3 console slims down for the holidays |url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/2010081/new-playstation-3-console-slims-down-for-the-holidays.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120921113032/http://www.pcworld.com/article/2010081/new-playstation-3-console-slims-down-for-the-holidays.html |archive-date=September 21, 2012 |access-date=September 20, 2012 |work=PC World}}{{cite web |last=MacManus |first=Christopher |date=2012-09-18 |title=Sony unveils super slim PlayStation 3 |url=https://www.cnet.com/news/sony-unveils-super-slim-playstation-3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226094101/http://www.cnet.com/news/sony-unveils-super-slim-playstation-3/ |archive-date=December 26, 2014 |access-date=December 26, 2014 |work=CNET |publisher=CBS Interactive}} Compared to the previous "Slim" model, the new chassis was approximately 20 percent smaller and 25 percent lighter, featured reduced power consumption, and replaced the slot-loading disc drive with a top-loading drive, changes that further lowered manufacturing costs. While the redesigned disc mechanism helped cut costs and save space, reviewers criticized it as feeling cheap and described it as "ultimately a step back".{{cite web |last=Detwiler |first=Bill |date=October 11, 2012 |title=PS3 Super Slim teardown reveals hardware changes, but no real upgrades |url=http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/cracking-open/ps3-super-slim-teardown-reveals-hardware-changes-but-no-real-upgrades/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226094258/http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/cracking-open/ps3-super-slim-teardown-reveals-hardware-changes-but-no-real-upgrades/ |archive-date=December 26, 2014 |access-date=December 26, 2014 |work=TechRepublic}} The Super Slim was offered with larger 250 GB and 500 GB hard drives, as well as a low-cost model featuring 16 GB of eMMC flash storage, with the option to install a hard drive later.{{cite web |last=Plunkett |first=Luke |date=September 19, 2012 |title=Sony Unveils a Brand New Model of the PS3 [Update: Now With Official Pics] |url=http://kotaku.com/5944433/sony-unveils-a-brand-new-model-of-the-ps3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226121313/http://kotaku.com/5944433/sony-unveils-a-brand-new-model-of-the-ps3 |archive-date=December 26, 2014 |access-date=December 26, 2014 |work=Kotaku |publisher=Gawker Media}}

{{See also|List of PlayStation 3 games}}

PlayStation 3 launched in North America with 14 titles, with Resistance: Fall of Man emerging as the top seller.{{cite web |date=November 24, 2006 |title=Saling The World: In Search of Zelda – week of November 24, 2006 |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/column_index.php?story=8497 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091109001657/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/column_index.php?story=8497 |archive-date=November 9, 2009 |access-date=January 8, 2009 |website=Gamasutra}} The game received critical acclaim and was named PS3 Game of the Year by both GameSpot and IGN.{{cite web |author=GameSpot Staff |date=December 21, 2006 |title=Best Games and Worst Games of 2006 at GameSpot — Best PlayStation 3 Game |url=http://www.gamespot.com/special_features/bestof2006/platform/index.html?page=9 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070301060508/http://www.gamespot.com/special_features/bestof2006/platform/index.html?page=9 |archive-date=March 1, 2007 |access-date=April 30, 2007 |website=GameSpot}}{{cite web |author=IGN Staff |date=December 21, 2006 |title=IGN.com presents The Best of 2006 – PlayStation 3: Game of the Year |url=http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps3/39.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070321051146/http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps3/39.html |archive-date=March 21, 2007 |access-date=April 30, 2007 |website=IGN.com}} Some anticipated titles, such as The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and F.E.A.R., missed the launch window and arrived in early 2007. In Japan, Ridge Racer 7 led launch sales,{{cite web |last=Gantayat |first=Anoop |date=November 13, 2006 |title=Sony Number Two in Japan |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/13/sony-number-two-in-japan |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070515093109/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/745/745507p1.html |archive-date=May 15, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN |df=mdy-all}} while the European launch featured 24 titles, including MotorStorm and Virtua Fighter 5. MotorStorm and Resistance: Fall of Man became the platform’s most successful titles of 2007,{{cite news |date=June 9, 2007 |title=Cathedral row over video game |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/manchester/6736809.stm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071222012058/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/manchester/6736809.stm |archive-date=December 22, 2007 |access-date=January 18, 2008 |publisher=BBC |df=mdy-all}}{{cite web |date=April 5, 2007 |title=Motorstorm completes hat-trick |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/motorstorm-completes-hat-trick |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090827153149/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/motorstorm-completes-hat-trick |archive-date=August 27, 2009 |access-date=January 18, 2008 |website=Eurogamer |df=mdy-all}} and each received sequels.{{cite web |author=Evolution Studios |year=2007 |title=MotorStorm 2 sequel confirmed for PS3, in development at Evolution Studios |url=http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2007/05/15/motorstorm-2-sequel-confirmed-for-ps3-in-development-at-evolution-studios.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070918020549/http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2007/05/15/motorstorm-2-sequel-confirmed-for-ps3-in-development-at-evolution-studios.htm |archive-date=September 18, 2007 |access-date=September 6, 2007 |work=www.videogamesblogger.com |df=mdy-all}}{{cite web |author=Insomniac Games |year=2007 |title=Full Moon Show Podcast |url=http://www.insomniacgames.com/podcast/podcast.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927212526/http://www.insomniacgames.com/podcast/podcast.php |archive-date=September 27, 2007 |access-date=November 12, 2007 |work=www.insomniacgames.com}}

At E3 2007, Sony showcased its upcoming first-party lineup including Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, and Warhawk, along with future titles such as Killzone 2, LittleBigPlanet, and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue. Key third-party games such as Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, Assassin's Creed, Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, and Grand Theft Auto IV also helped drive platform momentum.{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/game-critics-awards/best-of-e3-2007-winners-284570.php |title=Best of E3 2007 Winners |website=Kotaku |access-date=August 12, 2007 |date=July 31, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930225132/http://kotaku.com/gaming/game-critics-awards/best-of-e3-2007-winners-284570.php |archive-date=September 30, 2007 }}{{cite web |url=http://uk.gamespot.com/news/6177964.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews;title;1 |title=Haze now Fully PS3 Exclusive, 360 & PC Dropped |access-date=August 11, 2007 |last=Hatfield |first=Daemon |date=July 11, 2007 |website=GameSpot |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070902163213/http://uk.gamespot.com/news/6177964.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews;title;1 |archive-date=September 2, 2007 }}

Sony introduced stereoscopic 3D support to PS3 via firmware updates beginning in 2010. The technology was first demonstrated in the January 2009 Consumer Electronics Show, with Wipeout HD and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue used to show how the technology would work.{{cite web |date=January 8, 2009 |title=Sony teases with high-quality PS3 HD |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/01/ces-2009-sony-teases-with-high-quality-ps3-3d.ars |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120427114459/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2009/01/ces-2009-sony-teases-with-high-quality-ps3-3d.ars |archive-date=April 27, 2012 |access-date=June 14, 2017 |website=Ars Technica}} Firmware update 3.30 enabled 3D gaming, while 3.50 added support for 3D movie playback.{{cite web |date=June 1, 2010 |title=Sony dates PS3 3D update |url=http://www.mcvuk.com/news/39216/Sony-dates-PS3-3D-update |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100605012723/http://www.mcvuk.com/news/39216/Sony-dates-PS3-3D-update |archive-date=June 5, 2010 |publisher=MCV}}{{cite web |date=April 21, 2010 |title=PS3 3.30 System Software Update |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/04/21/ps3-3-30-system-software-update/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629212824/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/04/21/ps3-3-30-system-software-update/ |archive-date=June 29, 2011 |access-date=April 24, 2010 |work=blog.us.playstation.com |publisher=PlayStation.Blog}}

{{As of|2019|March|31|df=US|alt=As of early 2019,}} nearly 1 billion PS3 games had been sold worldwide.{{Cite web |title=Business Data & Sales |url=https://sonyinteractive.com/en/our-company/business-data-sales/ |access-date=2025-02-16 |website=Sony Interactive Entertainment |language=en-US}} The platform’s best-selling titles include Grand Theft Auto V,{{efn|Of the 90 million total units sold by April 2018, 32.8% of that total were for the PlayStation 3 version.{{cite web|url=https://www.marketwatch.com/amp/story/this-violent-videogame-has-made-more-money-than-any-movie-ever-2018-04-06|title=This violent videogame has made more money than any movie ever|date=April 9, 2018|last=Cherney|first=Mark A.|publisher=MarketWatch|access-date=December 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115192434/https://www.marketwatch.com/story/this-violent-videogame-has-made-more-money-than-any-movie-ever-2018-04-06|archive-date=November 15, 2020}}}} Gran Turismo 5, The Last of Us, and the Uncharted franchise.

File:Sony-PlayStation-3-CECHA01-Console-BR.jpg

The PlayStation 3 retained the same basic design across its three major hardware revisions, featuring a black plastic shell with a convex top when placed horizontally, or a convex-left side when oriented vertically. The original model used glossy piano black plastic and featured a logo inspired by the font used in the 2002 Spider-Man film, also produced by Sony. According to PlayStation designer Teiyu Goto, this logo was one of the first design elements selected by SCEI president Ken Kutaragi and helped shape the console’s overall aesthetic.{{cite web |date=March 29, 2007 |title=Kutaragi "insisted" on Spider-Man font for PS3 |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161017 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080114012015/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=161017 |archive-date=January 14, 2008 |access-date=January 18, 2008 |publisher=computerandvideogames.com |df=mdy-all}}

The font would be abandoned at the introduction of the "Slim" revision in favor of an updated version of the PS2 logo with more curved edges,{{Cite web |last=Ashcraft |first=Brian |date=August 25, 2009 |title=Why Sony Ditched The Spider-Man PS3 Font |url=https://kotaku.com/5344655/why-sony-ditched-the-spider-man-ps3-font |website=Kotaku}}{{cite news |date=August 19, 2009 |title=Sony Completely Rebrands The PlayStation 3 |url=http://kotaku.com/5340456/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20141211050731/http://kotaku.com/5340456/ |archive-date=December 11, 2014 |access-date=December 10, 2014 |work=Kotaku}} a design that would remain in use for the PS4 and PS5 logos.

File:CELL BE processor PS3 board (cropped).jpg on a PlayStation 3 motherboard]]{{Main|PlayStation 3 technical specifications}}The PlayStation 3 is powered by the Cell Broadband Engine, a 64-bit CPU co-developed by Sony, Toshiba and IBM. It includes a 3.2 GHz PowerPC-based Power Processing Element (PPE) and seven Synergistic Processing Elements (SPEs).{{cite web |title=Cell Introduction |url=https://www-01.ibm.com/chips/techlib/techlib.nsf/techdocs/D21E662845B95D4F872570AB0055404D/$file/2053_IBM_CellIntro.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090326055101/http://www-01.ibm.com/chips/techlib/techlib.nsf/techdocs/D21E662845B95D4F872570AB0055404D/$file/2053_IBM_CellIntro.pdf |archive-date=March 26, 2009 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=IBM}} To improve manufacturing yield, the processor is initially fabricated with eight SPEs. After production, each chip is tested, and if a defect is found in one SPE, it is disabled using laser trimming. This approach minimizes waste by utilizing processors that would otherwise be discarded. Even in chips without defects, one SPE is intentionally disabled to ensure consistency across units.{{cite web |title=Sony PlayStation 3 Cell Processor |url=http://moss.csc.ncsu.edu/~mueller/cluster/ps3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071204202236/http://moss.csc.ncsu.edu/~mueller/cluster/ps3/ |archive-date=December 4, 2007 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=North Carolina State University |df=mdy-all}}{{cite news |last=Linklater |first=Martin |title=Optimizing Cell Code |work=Game Developer Magazine, April 2007 |pages=15–18 |quote=To increase fabrication yields, Sony ships PlayStation 3 Cell processors with only seven working SPEs. And from those seven, one SPE will be used by the operating system for various tasks, This leaves six SPEs for game programmer to use.}} Of the seven operational SPEs, six are available for developers to use in games and applications, while the seventh is reserved for the console’s operating system. The Cell processor is paired with 256 MB of high-bandwidth XDR DRAM.{{cite web |date=May 16, 2005 |title=E3 2005: PS3 Tech Specs |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/05/16/e3-2005-ps3-tech-specs-2 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070908024041/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/614/614682p1.html |archive-date=September 8, 2007 |access-date=June 11, 2020 |website=IGN |df=mdy-all}}File:RSX 'Reality Synthesizer'.jpg

Graphics processing is managed by the Reality Synthesizer (RSX), developed by Nvidia and paired with 256 MB of GDDR3 SDRAM video memory. The RSX chip can produce resolutions ranging from standard-definition (480i/576i) up to high-definition (1080p). Initially, Sony’s hardware development team did not plan to include a dedicated GPU, believing the Cell processor could handle all graphics processing tasks. However, game developers, including Sony’s ICE team (the central graphics technologies group for its game studios), demonstrated that without a dedicated GPU, the PlayStation 3’s performance would fall short, particularly when compared to the Xbox 360. This feedback prompted the late-stage addition of the RSX GPU during the console’s development.{{Cite web |last=Moriarty |first=C. |date=2013 |title=PlayStation 3 delayed, originally planned for 2005 |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/08/playstation-3-was-delayed-originally-planned-for-2005 |website=IGN |access-date=October 21, 2022 |archive-date=October 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221020182024/https://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/08/playstation-3-was-delayed-originally-planned-for-2005 |url-status=live }}

Physical media games for the PlayStation 3 were sold on Blu-ray discs and the console features a 2× speed drive which is also capable of reading Blu-ray movies, DVDs, and CDs.{{cite web| url=http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/about/specs| title=PlayStation 3 Technical Specifications| publisher=SCEA| access-date=January 14, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080113173737/http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/about/specs |archive-date = January 13, 2008|url-status=dead}} Early models came with 20 GB or 60 GB hard drives,{{Efn|20 GB model was not available in PAL regions}}{{cite web |date=June 11, 2007 |title=Reeves: No PAL 80 GB PS3 Plans – Edge Magazine |url=http://www.next-gen.biz/news/reeves-no-pal-80gb-ps3-plans |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130116061652/http://www.next-gen.biz/news/reeves-no-pal-80gb-ps3-plans |archive-date=January 16, 2013 |access-date=June 28, 2011 |publisher=Next-gen.biz}}{{cite web |date=November 13, 2006 |title=PS3 60 GB review |url=http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-60gb/4505-10109_7-31355103.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070517201609/http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-60gb/4505-10109_7-31355103.html |archive-date=May 17, 2007 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |website=CNET |df=mdy-all}} with later versions offering up to 500 GB.{{cite web |date=July 6, 2010 |title=Sony Computer Entertainment Japan to introduce PlayStation3 (PS3) with 160 GB and 320 GB hard disk drive, available from July 29, 2010 at a Recommended Retail Price of 29,980 yen and 34,980 yen respectively |url=http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/release/100706ae.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100711020242/http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/release/100706ae.html |archive-date=July 11, 2010 |access-date=July 6, 2010 |publisher=Sony}}{{cite web |date=July 6, 2010 |title=White PS3 Slim out in Japan this month |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/white-ps3-slim-out-in-japan-this-month |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100709013150/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/white-ps3-slim-out-in-japan-this-month |archive-date=July 9, 2010 |access-date=July 6, 2010 |website=Eurogamer}} (see: model comparison) All models have user-upgradeable hard drives.{{cite web| url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/12/28/playstation-tips-5-diy-hard-drive-upgrade/| title=PlayStation Blog — Upgrading the PS3's hard drive| work=blog.us.playstation.com| publisher=PlayStation.Blog| date=December 28, 2007| last=Rubenstein| first=Jeff| access-date=January 14, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080118172855/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/12/28/playstation-tips-5-diy-hard-drive-upgrade/| archive-date=January 18, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} Connectivity options include Bluetooth 2.0 (supporting up to seven devices),[http://us.playstation.com/support/manuals/ps3/ quick reference manual] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110110085652/http://us.playstation.com/support/manuals/ps3/ |date=January 10, 2011 }}, for 20 GB US PlayStation 3 page 14 Gigabit Ethernet, USB 2.0, and HDMI 1.4.{{efn|name=HDMI|Initially used HDMI 1.3a specification, but was upgraded (via firmware update) to 1.4 to support stereoscopic 3D for gaming and Blu-ray video playback. The PlayStation 3 does not support any other HDMI 1.4 capabilities.}} All models except one early version feature built-in Wi-Fi,{{Efn|Original 20 GB model}} and some early units include flash card readers for Memory Stick, SD and CompactFlash formats.{{Efn|60 GB and CECHExx 80 GB models}}

{{Main|PlayStation 3 models}}

The PlayStation 3 was released in three main designs: the original, the Slim, and the Super Slim. These revisions introduced changes such as reduced power consumption, smaller form factors, expanded storage, and the removal of certain features to lower costs.

File:DualShock3-in-Hand.jpg controller in hand]]

{{Main|PlayStation 3 accessories}}

The standard controller at the PlayStation 3’s launch in 2006 was the wireless Sixaxis, which featured a built-in accelerometer capable of motion sensing across three directional and three rotational axes—six in total, hence the name. However, it lacked vibration functionality. In late 2007, Sony released the DualShock 3, which added vibration support while retaining all motion-sensing features.{{cite web |date=September 19, 2007 |title=TGS '07: Spot On — The Dual Shock 3 |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6179170.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012102413/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6179170.html |archive-date=October 12, 2007 |access-date=September 20, 2007 |website=GameSpot}}{{cite web |date=October 8, 2007 |title=DualShock 3 will launch on November 11 in Japan |url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/vibe/dualshock-3-getting-all-ceramic-white-for-japan-308546.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071221060114/http://kotaku.com/gaming/vibe/dualshock-3-getting-all-ceramic-white-for-japan-308546.php |archive-date=December 21, 2007 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |website=Kotaku |df=mdy-all}}{{cite web |date=February 26, 2008 |title=Sony Announces New 80 GB PS3 Bundle, DualShock 3, Red PSP |url=http://www.dailytech.com/Sony+Announces+New+80GB+PS3+Bundle+DualShock+3+Red+PSP/article10868.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080415231145/http://www.dailytech.com/Sony+Announces+New+80GB+PS3+Bundle+DualShock+3+Red+PSP/article10868.htm |archive-date=April 15, 2008 |access-date=March 17, 2008 |publisher=Daily Tech |df=mdy-all}}

Numerous other accessories for the console were also developed including the Logitech Driving Force GT, the Logitech Cordless Precision Controller, the Blu-ray Disc Remote, and the PlayTV DVB-T tuner and digital video recorder.{{cite web |title=PlayStation 3 Accessories |url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Accessories |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080113064221/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Accessories |archive-date=January 13, 2008 |access-date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=SCEA}}{{cite web |date=August 22, 2007 |title=PlayTV on PlayStation 3 explained |url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/clips/play-tv-on-ps3-explained-292541.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080912172259/http://kotaku.com/gaming/clips/play-tv-on-ps3-explained-292541.php |archive-date=September 12, 2008 |access-date=October 14, 2008 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment Europe via Kotaku}}

In response to the popularity of Nintendo’s motion controls on the Wii, Sony introduced the PlayStation Move in 2010. Its wand-style controllers use internal inertial sensors and a glowing orb tracked by the PlayStation Eye camera to enable precise motion-controlled gameplay.{{cite web |date=June 16, 2010 |title=PlayStation Move motion controller to hit worldwide market starting this September |url=http://scei.co.jp/corporate/release/100616ae.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120610110104/http://scei.co.jp/corporate/release/100616ae.html |archive-date=June 10, 2012 |access-date=June 30, 2010 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment}}

File:Yellow Light of Death- PlayStation 3.png

In September 2009, the BBC television program Watchdog aired a report investigating hardware failures in the PlayStation 3, referring to the issue as the "yellow light of death" (YLOD). The report claimed that affected consoles typically failed 18–24 months after purchase—outside of Sony’s standard one-year warranty. After this period, users were required to pay a fixed fee to receive a refurbished replacement console from Sony.{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/watchdog/2009/09/playstation3_and_the_yellow_li.html#more |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120410112538/http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/watchdog/2009/09/playstation3_and_the_yellow_li.html#more |archive-date=April 10, 2012 |title=BBC "Watchdog" report on "Yellow Light of Death" |publisher=BBC |first=Rob|last=Unsworth |date=September 17, 2009 |access-date=May 31, 2010 }}

However, according to Ars Technica, the failure rate of PlayStation 3 consoles remained within the expected range for consumer electronics.{{cite web |last=Kuchera |first=Ben |date=February 14, 2008 |title=Xbox 360 failure rates worse than most consumer electronics |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2008/02/xbox-360-failure-rates-worse-than-most-consumer-electornics.ars |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100706104052/http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2008/02/xbox-360-failure-rates-worse-than-most-consumer-electornics.ars |archive-date=July 6, 2010 |access-date=August 25, 2010 |publisher=Arstechnica.com}} A 2009 study by warranty provider SquareTrade found a two-year failure rate of 10% for the PlayStation 3.Sands A, Tseng V. (2009). [http://www.squaretrade.com/pages/xbox360-ps3-wii-reliability-08-2009/ Game Console Failure Rates: Wii 9 times more reliable than Xbox 360, 4 times more than PS3]. SquareTrade. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120324011002/http://www.squaretrade.com/pages/xbox360-ps3-wii-reliability-08-2009/|date=March 24, 2012}} Sony said its internal data indicated that only about 0.5% of consoles were returned with symptoms of the YLOD.{{cite news |date=September 18, 2009 |title=Sony rebuts BBC PlayStation claim |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8263063.stm |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/8263063.stm |archive-date=2021-10-08 |work=news.bbc.co.uk |publisher=BBC News}}{{cbignore}} In response to the Watchdog report, Sony issued a statement disputing the accuracy and tone of the report, arguing it was misleading.{{cite web |date=September 17, 2009 |title=Sony tackles BBC over 'PS3 failure' report |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/sony-tackles-bbc-over-ps3-failure-report |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090922183740/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/sony-tackles-bbc-over-ps3-failure-report |archive-date=September 22, 2009 |access-date=September 18, 2009 |work=www.gamesindustry.biz |df=mdy-all}}

{{Main|PlayStation 3 cluster}}

Beyond gaming, the PlayStation 3’s hardware was embraced by researchers for high-performance computing applications.{{cite web |date=August 28, 2006 |title=Building Supercomputer Using PlayStation 3 |url=http://www.consolewatcher.com/2006/08/building-supercomputer-using-playstation-3/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070206135040/http://www.consolewatcher.com/2006/08/building-supercomputer-using-playstation-3/ |archive-date=February 6, 2007 |access-date=August 28, 2006 |publisher=Console Watcher.com}} Thanks in part to Sony’s early support for third-party operating systems, the PS3 was repurposed for tasks ranging from academic research to distributed computing. Dr. Frank Mueller of North Carolina State University clustered eight PS3s in 2007 using Fedora Linux and open-source toolsets. Although limited by the console's 256 MB of RAM, he called the system a cost-effective entry point into parallel computing.{{cite web |title=Engineer Creates First Academic PlayStation 3 Computing Cluster |url=http://www.physorg.com/news92674403.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070319223403/http://www.physorg.com/news92674403.html |archive-date=March 19, 2007 |publisher=PhysOrg.com}}{{cite web |title=NC State Engineer Creates First Academic PlayStation 3 Computing Cluster |url=http://moss.csc.ncsu.edu/~mueller/cluster/ps3/coe.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012191214/http://moss.csc.ncsu.edu/~mueller/cluster/ps3/coe.html |archive-date=October 12, 2007 |publisher=College of Engineering, North Carolina State University}}{{cite web |title=Sony PS3 Cluster (IBM Cell BE) |url=http://moss.csc.ncsu.edu/~mueller/cluster/ps3/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070212140713/http://moss.csc.ncsu.edu/~mueller/cluster/ps3/ |archive-date=February 12, 2007 |publisher=Frank Mueller, Associate Professor, College of Engineering, North Carolina State University}} Sony and Stanford University also launched the Folding@home client, allowing PS3 owners to contribute processing power to study protein folding for disease research.{{cite web |title=Folding@home |url=http://www.scei.co.jp/folding/en/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070318042916/https://www.scei.co.jp/folding/en/ |archive-date=March 18, 2007 |access-date=March 18, 2007 |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment}}

The U.S. military recognized the PS3’s computing eventually potential as well.{{cite web |last=Stokes |first=Jon |date=November 28, 2009 |title=Sony still subsidizing US military supercomputer efforts |url=https://arstechnica.com/security/news/2009/11/sony-still-subsidizing-us-supercomputer-efforts.ars |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091212213628/http://arstechnica.com/security/news/2009/11/sony-still-subsidizing-us-supercomputer-efforts.ars |archive-date=December 12, 2009 |access-date=December 18, 2009 |website=Ars Technica}} In 2010, the Air Force Research Laboratory built the Condor Cluster using 1,760 PS3 consoles, achieving 500 trillion floating-point operations per second.{{cite web |date=November 17, 2010 |title=AFRL to hold ribbon cutting for Condor supercomputer |url=https://www.wpafb.af.mil/News/story/id/123231285/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101209141211/https://www.wpafb.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123231285 |archive-date=December 9, 2010 |access-date=December 15, 2010 |website=www.wpafb.af.mil |publisher=The Official Web Site of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base}} At the time, it was the 33rd most powerful supercomputer in the world and was used for analyzing high-resolution satellite imagery.{{cite web |last=Koff |first=Stephen |date=November 30, 2010 |title=Defense Department discusses new Sony PlayStation supercomputer |url=http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2010/11/defense_department_discusses_n.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110223183448/http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2010/11/defense_department_discusses_n.html |archive-date=February 23, 2011 |access-date=March 28, 2011 |work=blog.cleveland.com}} The PS3 was also employed in cybersecurity research; in 2008, a group of researchers used a 200-console cluster to crack SSL encryption.{{cite web |date=December 30, 2008 |title=PlayStation 3 used to hack SSL |url=https://www.engadget.com/2008/12/30/hackers-playstation-3-make-ssl-much-less-secure/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090706212858/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/30/hackers-playstation-3-make-ssl-much-less-secure/ |archive-date=July 6, 2009 |access-date=October 31, 2009 |publisher=Engadget}} These unconventional applications were curtailed by later hardware revisions that removed support for third-party operating systems.

{{Main|PlayStation 3 system software|List of PlayStation applications}}

Sony has included the ability for the operating system, referred to as System Software, to be updated.{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Features/SystemUpdate|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100208164422/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Features/SystemUpdate|archive-date=February 8, 2010| title=PlayStation.com – PLAYSTATION3 – Features – SystemUpdate| publisher=SCEA| access-date=February 4, 2010}} The updates can be acquired in several ways:

• If PlayStation 3 has an active Internet connection, updates may be downloaded directly from the PlayStation Network to PlayStation 3 and subsequently installed. Systems with active Internet will automatically check online for software updates each time the console is started.
• Using an external PC, a user may download the update from the official PlayStation website, transfer it to portable storage media and install it on the system.
• Some game discs come with system software updates on the disc. This may be due to the game requiring an update in order to run. If so, the software may be installed from the disc.

The original PlayStation 3 also included the ability to install other operating systems,{{cite web |url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/settings/osinstall.html |title=Install Other OS |access-date=April 25, 2007 |year=2007 |work=PlayStation 3 User's Guide |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070421211047/http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/settings/osinstall.html |archive-date=April 21, 2007 |url-status=live }} such as Linux.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6162316.html?sid=6162316|title=Yellow Dog Linux launches for PS3|date=November 27, 2006|first=Emma|last=Boyes|website=GameSpot|access-date=November 30, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070219010621/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6162316.html?sid=6162316|archive-date=February 19, 2007|url-status=live}} This was not included in the newer slim models and was removed from all older PlayStation 3 consoles with the release of firmware update 3.21 in April 2010. The functionality is now only available to users of original consoles who choose not to update their system software beyond version 3.15{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/linux-support-dropped-from-ps3-firmware-3-21/|title=Linux support dropped from PS3 firmware 3.21|access-date=March 29, 2010|date=March 29, 2010|publisher=Joystiq|author=Andrew Yoon|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100413080907/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/linux-support-dropped-from-ps3-firmware-3-21|archive-date=April 13, 2010|url-status=dead}} or who have installed third-party, modified and unofficial versions of the firmware instead.{{cite web|url=http://www.qj.net/ps3/news/ps3-dual-boot-gameos/linux-cfw-released.html|title=PS3 dual boot GameOS/Linux CFW released|first=Ryan|last=F.|access-date=December 30, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703122928/http://www.qj.net/ps3/news/ps3-dual-boot-gameos/linux-cfw-released.html|archive-date=July 3, 2017|url-status=live}}

{{Main|XrossMediaBar#PlayStation 3 XMB|l1=XrossMediaBar – PlayStation 3 XMB}}

File:XMB of PS3.jpg

The standard PlayStation 3 version of the XrossMediaBar (pronounced "Cross Media Bar" and abbreviated XMB) includes nine categories of options. These are: Users, Settings, Photo, Music, Video, TV/Video Services, Game, Network, PlayStation Network and Friends (similar to the PlayStation Portable media bar). TheTV/Video Services category is for services like Netflix and if PlayTV or torne is installed; the first category in this section is "My Channels", which lets users download various streaming services, including Sony's own streaming services Crackle and PlayStation Vue. By default, the What's New section of PlayStation Network is displayed when the system starts up. PS3 includes the ability to store various master and secondary user profiles, manage and explore photos with or without a musical slide show, play music and copy audio CD tracks to an attached data storage device, play movies and video files from the hard disk drive, an optical disc (Blu-ray Disc or DVD-Video) or an optional USB mass storage or Flash card, compatibility for a USB keyboard and mouse and a web browser supporting compatible-file download function.{{cite web| url=http://us.playstation.com/ps3/features/ps_ps3_connectivity.html| title=PlayStation 3 Features Connectivity| publisher=Sony| access-date=September 3, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100304101616/http://us.playstation.com/ps3/features/ps_ps3_connectivity.html| archive-date=March 4, 2010| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} Additionally, UPnP media will appear in the respective audio/video/photo categories if a compatible media server or DLNA server is detected on the local network. The Friends menu allows mail with emoticon and attached picture features and video chat which requires an optional PlayStation Eye or EyeToy webcam.{{cite web| url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/About/PSN| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080112145945/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/About/PSN| archive-date=January 12, 2008| title=About the PlayStation Network| publisher=Sony| access-date=January 13, 2008}} The Network menu allows online shopping through the PlayStation Store and connectivity to PlayStation Portable via Remote Play.

PlayStation 3 console protects certain types of data and uses digital rights management to limit the data's use. Purchased games and content from the PlayStation Network store are governed by PlayStation's Network Digital Rights Management (NDRM). The NDRM allows users to access the data from up to 2 different PlayStation 3's that have been activated using a user's PlayStation Network ID.{{cite web| url=http://us.playstation.com/support/answer/index.htm?a_id=1030| title=PlayStation Knowledge Center| publisher=Sony| access-date=July 6, 2010| quote=Can multiple PlayStationNetwork accounts access PlayStationStore content that was purchased by a different account?| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930021343/http://us.playstation.com/support/answer/index.htm?a_id=1030| archive-date=September 30, 2011| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} PlayStation 3 also limits the transfer of copy protected videos downloaded from its store to other machines and states that copy protected video "may not restore correctly" following certain actions after making a backup such as downloading a new copy protected movie.{{cite web| url=http://us.playstation.com/support/answer/index.htm?a_id=1562| title=PlayStation Knowledge Center| publisher=Sony| access-date=July 6, 2010| quote=How do I back up and restore videos that were downloaded from the PlayStationStore?| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930021358/http://us.playstation.com/support/answer/index.htm?a_id=1562| archive-date=September 30, 2011| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}

;Photo Gallery

File:PhotoGalleryPS3.png

Photo Gallery is an optional application to view, create, and group photos from PS3, which is installed separately from the system software at 105 MB. It was introduced in system software version 2.60 and provides a range of tools for sorting through and displaying the system's pictures. The key feature of this application is that it can organize photos into groups according to various criteria. Notable categorizations are colors, ages, or facial expressions of the people in the photos. Slideshows can be viewed with the application, along with music and playlists. The software was updated with the release of system software version 3.40 allowing users to upload and browse photos on Facebook and Picasa.{{cite web| title = PS3 System Software Update – 3.40| access-date = June 28, 2010| url = http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/06/28/ps3-system-software-update-v3-40-and-playstation-plus-available-later-today/| work = blog.eu.playstation.com| date = June 28, 2010| publisher = PlayStation.Blog| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100701174309/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/06/28/ps3-system-software-update-v3-40-and-playstation-plus-available-later-today/| archive-date = July 1, 2010| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}}

;PlayMemories Studio

PlayMemories is an optional stereoscopic 3D (and also standard) photo viewing application,{{cite web|title=What is the function of PlayMemories application? |access-date=September 22, 2010 |url=http://www.sony-mea.com/support/faq/416120 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121201030520/http://www.sony-mea.com/support/faq/416120 |archive-date=December 1, 2012 }} which is installed from the PlayStation Store at 956 MB. The application is dedicated specifically to 3D photos and features the ability to zoom into 3D environments and change the angle and perspective of panoramas.{{cite web| title = Sony launches PlayMemories app for 3D photos| access-date = September 22, 2010| url = http://www.dpreview.com/news/1009/10092108sonyplaymemories.asp| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100923134037/http://www.dpreview.com/news/1009/10092108sonyplaymemories.asp| archive-date = September 23, 2010| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}} It requires system software 3.40 or higher; 3D photos; a 3D HDTV, and an HDMI cable for the 3D images to be viewed properly.

;Video editor and uploader

A new application was released as part of system software version 3.40 which allows users to edit videos on PlayStation 3 and upload them to the Internet. The software features basic video editing tools including the ability to cut videos and add music and captions. Videos can then be rendered and uploaded to video sharing websites such as Facebook and YouTube.

;Video on demand

In addition to the video service provided by the Sony Entertainment Network, the PlayStation 3 console has access to a variety of third-party video services, dependent on the region:

Since June 2009, VidZone has offered a free music video streaming service in Europe,{{cite web| url =http://www.thetechherald.com/article.php/200924/3858/function.mysql-connect| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/http://www.thetechherald.com/article.php/200924/3858/function.mysql-connect| archive-date=2021-10-08| title =VidZone gives PlayStation 3 a free music video jukebox| first =Stevie| last =Smith| date =June 12, 2009| work =www.thetechherald.com}}{{cbignore}}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} Australia and New Zealand.{{cite web| url = http://www.itwire.com/content/view/25629/532/| title = VidZone review – The online music video jukebox| first = Mike| last = Bantick| date = June 12, 2009| work = www.itwire.com| url-status=dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120609140024/http://www.itwire.com/content/view/25629/532/| archive-date = June 9, 2012| df = mdy-all}} In October 2009, Sony Computer Entertainment and Netflix announced that the Netflix streaming service would also be available on PlayStation 3 in the United States. A paid Netflix subscription was required for the service.{{Cite journal| url = https://www.reuters.com/article/2009/10/26/idUS33476+26-Oct-2009+PRN20091026| title = Coming Soon: Netflix Members Can Instantly Watch Movies and TV Episodes Streamed to TVs Via the PlayStation(R)3 Computer Entertainment System (Press Release)| date = October 26, 2009| website = www.reuters.com| publisher = Netflix Inc. via Reuters| url-status=dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131214043708/http://www.reuters.com/article/2009/10/26/idUS33476+26-Oct-2009+PRN20091026| archive-date = December 14, 2013| df = mdy-all}} The service became available in November 2009.{{Cite news |last=Mastrapa |first=Gus |title=Netflix Streaming to PlayStation 3 in November |url=https://www.wired.com/2009/10/netflix-ps3/ |access-date=2025-06-14 |work=Wired |language=en-US |issn=1059-1028}} Initially users had to use a free Blu-ray disc to access the service; however, in October 2010 the requirement to use a disc to gain access was removed.{{cite web| url = http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/10/14/netflixps3/| title = Netflix on PS3: Disc-free Next Week| author = Greg Peters (Netflix)| work = blog.us.playstation.com| publisher = PlayStation.Blog| date = October 14, 2010| access-date = October 6, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111001202553/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/10/14/netflixps3/| archive-date = October 1, 2011| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}}

In April 2010, support for MLB.tv was added, allowing MLB.tv subscribers to watch regular season games live in HD and access new interactive features designed exclusively for PSN.{{cite web |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/04/22/watch-major-league-baseball-on-ps3-mlb-tv-app-live-today/ |title=Watch Major League Baseball on PS3! MLB.TV App Live Today |publisher=PlayStation.blog |first=Grace |last=Chen |date=April 22, 2010 |access-date=June 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120511174129/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/04/22/watch-major-league-baseball-on-ps3-mlb-tv-app-live-today/ |archive-date=May 11, 2012 |url-status=live }}

In November 2010, access to the video and social networking site MUBI was enabled for European, New Zealand, and Australian users; the service integrates elements of social networking with rental or subscription video streaming, allowing users to watch and discuss films with other users.Sources:

• {{cite web|url=http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/05/18/ps3-mubi-you/|title=PS3 + MUBI + YOU|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|work=blog.eu.playstation.com|first=Efe|last=Cakarel|date=May 18, 2010|access-date=May 18, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928025721/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/05/18/ps3-mubi-you/|archive-date=September 28, 2011|url-status=live}}
• {{cite web| url = http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/11/01/mubi-is-launching-on-ps3-this-week/| title = MUBI Is Launching On PS3 This Week| date = November 1, 2010| first = Efe| last = Cakarel| publisher = PlayStation.Blog| work = blog.eu.playstation.com| access-date = October 6, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120105064812/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/11/01/mubi-is-launching-on-ps3-this-week/| archive-date = January 5, 2012| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}}{{Cite web| url =https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/11/01/mubi-goes-live-this-week| title = MUBI Goes Live This Week| date = November 1, 2010| publisher = IGN| access-date = June 11, 2020| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120308112057/http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/113/1131375p1.html| archive-date = March 8, 2012| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}} Also in November 2010 the video rental service VUDU,Sources:
• {{Cite journal| url = http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20023031-1.html| title = Vudu coming to PS3 with updated interface| author = John P. Falcone| date = November 16, 2010| website = News.cnet.com| publisher = CNET| access-date = October 6, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110924192738/http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-20023031-1.html| archive-date = September 24, 2011| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}}
• {{cite web| url = http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/16/vudu-comes-to-the-ps3-adding-another-choice-for-psn-members-to-experience-media-instantly/| title = VUDU Comes to the PS3, Adding Another Choice for PSN Members to Experience Media Instantly| first = Susan| last = Panico| date = November 16, 2010| work = blog.us.playstation.com| publisher = PlayStation.Blog| access-date = October 6, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110817235456/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/16/vudu-comes-to-the-ps3-adding-another-choice-for-psn-members-to-experience-media-instantly/| archive-date = August 17, 2011| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}} NHL GameCenter Live,{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/10/nhl-lights-the-lamp-on-the-ps3/|title=NHL "Lights the Lamp" on the PS3|first=Grace|last=Chen|date=November 10, 2010|work=blog.us.playstation.com|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|access-date=June 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101114010426/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/10/nhl-lights-the-lamp-on-the-ps3/|archive-date=November 14, 2010|url-status=live}} and subscription service Hulu Plus launched on PlayStation 3 in the United States.{{cite web| url = http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/10/get-hulu-plus-on-your-ps3-today/| title = Get Hulu Plus on your PS3 Today!| first = Susan| last = Panico| date = November 10, 2010| work = blog.us.playstation.com| publisher = PlayStation.Blog| access-date = October 6, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110924164536/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/11/10/get-hulu-plus-on-your-ps3-today/| archive-date = September 24, 2011| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}}

In August 2011, Sony, in partnership with DirecTV, added NFL Sunday Ticket.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/08/17/directv-and-playstation-bring-nfl-sunday-ticket-to-ps3/|title=DIRECTV and PlayStation Bring NFL Sunday Ticket to PS3|first=Philip|last=Rosenberg|date=August 17, 2011|work=blog.us.playstation.com|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|access-date=June 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110905051659/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/08/17/directv-and-playstation-bring-nfl-sunday-ticket-to-ps3/|archive-date=September 5, 2011|url-status=live}} Then in October 2011, Best Buy launched an app for its CinemaNow service.{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/10/25/playstation-store-update-210/|title=PlayStation Store Update|first=Grace|last=Chen|date=October 25, 2011|work=blog.us.playstation.com|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|access-date=June 24, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120210051315/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2011/10/25/playstation-store-update-210/|archive-date=February 10, 2012|url-status=live}} In April 2012, Amazon.com launched an Amazon Video app, accessible to Amazon Prime subscribers (in the US).{{cite web |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/03/ps3-the-first-console-to-offer-amazon-instant-video/ |title=PS3: The First Console to Offer Amazon Video |publisher=PlayStation.blog |first=Jack |last=Buser |date=April 3, 2012 |access-date=June 15, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120607024007/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2012/04/03/ps3-the-first-console-to-offer-amazon-instant-video/ |archive-date=June 7, 2012 |url-status=live }}

Upon reviewing the PlayStation and Netflix collaboration, Pocket-Lint said "We've used the Netflix app on Xbox too and, as good as it is, we think the PS3 version might have the edge here." and stated that having Netflix and LoveFilm on PlayStation is "mind-blowingly good."{{cite web |last=Hall |first=Chris |url=http://www.pocket-lint.com/review/6147/sony-playstation-3-slim-500gb-and-12gb-games-console-review |title=Sony PS3 slim review |date=February 15, 2013 |publisher=Pocket-lint |access-date=January 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130414100837/http://www.pocket-lint.com/review/6147/sony-playstation-3-slim-500gb-and-12gb-games-console-review |archive-date=April 14, 2013 |url-status=live }}

In July 2013, YuppTV OTT player launched its branded application on the PS3 computer entertainment system in the United States.[https://us.en.kb.sony.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/37077 "How to access the YUPPTV app"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160118154443/https://us.en.kb.sony.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/37077 |date=January 18, 2016 }}. Sony.com. March 12, 2013.[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3QoJLhHmMw "YuppTV Application Overview"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160118154547/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3QoJLhHmMw |date=January 18, 2016 }}. Playstation.com.

The PlayStation 3 has the ability to play standard audio CDs, a feature that was notably removed from its successors.{{cite web |url=https://www.theregister.com/2013/11/01/playstation_4_faq/| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://www.theregister.com/2013/11/01/playstation_4_faq/| archive-date=2021-10-08 |title=Here's what YOU WON'T be able to do with your PlayStation 4 |work=The Register |last=McAllister |first=Neil |date=November 1, 2013 |access-date=August 11, 2021 |url-status=live}}{{cbignore}} PlayStation 3 added the ability for ripping audio CDs to store them on the system's hard disk; the system has transcoders for ripping to either MP3, AAC, or Sony's own ATRAC (ATRAC3plus){{cite web |url=https://www.afterdawn.com/glossary/term.cfm/atrac3plus| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://www.afterdawn.com/glossary/term.cfm/atrac3plus| archive-date=2021-10-08 |title=ATRAC3plus |website=afterdawn.com |access-date=August 28, 2021 |url-status=live}}{{cbignore}} formats. Early models were also able to playback Super Audio CDs, however this support was dropped in the third generation revision of the console from late 2007. However, all models do retain Direct Stream Digital playback ability.{{cite web |url=http://www.ps3sacd.com/faq.html#_Toc180147566| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/http://www.ps3sacd.com/faq.html#_Toc180147566| archive-date=2021-10-08 |title=Do all PS3s play SA-CD? |website=ps3sacd.com |access-date=August 11, 2021 |url-status=live}}{{cbignore}}

PlayStation 3 can also play music from portable players by connecting the player to the system's USB port, including from Walkman digital audio players and other ATRAC players{{cite web | url=https://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/3_15/video/video.html | title=PS3 - Video category | access-date=May 9, 2022 | archive-date=July 9, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709172914/http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/3_15/video/video.html | url-status=live }} and other players that use the UMS protocol. The PlayStation 3 did not feature the Sony CONNECT Music Store.

{{Main|OtherOS}}

PlayStation 3 initially shipped with the ability to install an alternative operating system alongside the main system software; Linux and other Unix-based operating systems were available. The hardware allowed access to six of the seven Synergistic Processing Elements of the Cell microprocessor, but not the RSX 'Reality Synthesizer' graphics chip.

The 'OtherOS' functionality was not present in the updated PS Slim models, and the feature was subsequently removed from previous versions of the PS3 as part of the machine's firmware update version 3.21 which was released on April 1, 2010;{{cite news |title=PSA: PS3 Firmware Update 3.21 available now |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psa-ps3-firmware-update-3-21-available-now/ |date=April 1, 2010 |access-date=April 1, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100402021205/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psa-ps3-firmware-update-3-21-available-now/ |archive-date=April 2, 2010 |url-status=dead }} Sony cited security concerns as the rationale. The firmware update 3.21 was mandatory for access to the PlayStation Network.{{cite news |title=PS3 Firmware (v3.21) Update |url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/03/28/ps3-firmware-v3-21-update |date=March 28, 2010 |access-date=March 28, 2010 |work=blog.us.playstation.com |publisher=PlayStation.Blog |quote=.. but due to security concerns, Sony Computer Entertainment will remove the functionality through the 3.21 system software update |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110615093847/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/03/28/ps3-firmware-v3-21-update/ |archive-date=June 15, 2011 |url-status=live }}

The removal caused some controversy; as the update removed officially advertised features from already sold products, and gave rise to several class action lawsuits aimed at making Sony return the feature or provide compensation.{{cite news|title=Sony Steals Feature From Your PlayStation 3|url=https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2010/03/sony-steals-feature-from-your-playstation-3|date=March 30, 2010|access-date=March 30, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100402123825/http://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2010/03/sony-steals-feature-from-your-playstation-3|archive-date=April 2, 2010|url-status=live}}Sources:

• {{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/sony-hit-by-two-more-other-os-lawsuits|title=Sony hit by two more Other OS lawsuits|website=Eurogamer|first=Oli|last=Welsh|date=May 11, 2010|access-date=May 11, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100511192837/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/sony-hit-by-two-more-other-os-lawsuits|archive-date=May 11, 2010|url-status=live}}
• {{cite web| title = Man Files class action lawsuit over Other OS support removal| publisher = Joystiq| date = April 30, 2010| url = http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/man-files-class-action-suit-over-ps3-other-os-support-removal/| access-date = May 12, 2010| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100503213819/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/man-files-class-action-suit-over-ps3-other-os-support-removal| archive-date = May 3, 2010| url-status=dead| df = mdy-all}}
• {{cite web| title = PlayStation 3 Owner files class action lawsuit against Sony for dropping 'Other OS'| website = Kotaku| date = April 29, 2010| url = http://kotaku.com/5526847/playstation-3-owner-files-class-action-suit-against-sony-for-dropping-other-os| access-date = May 12, 2010| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100502232505/http://kotaku.com/5526847/playstation-3-owner-files-class-action-suit-against-sony-for-dropping-other-os| archive-date = May 2, 2010| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}}

On December 8, 2011, U.S. District Judge Richard Seeborg dismissed the last remaining count of the class action lawsuit (other claims in the suit had previously been dismissed), stating: "As a legal matter, ... plaintiffs have failed to allege facts or articulate a theory on which Sony may be held liable."{{cite web|url=http://www.courthousenews.com/2011/12/09/42126.htm|title=Sony Tosses PlayStation 3 Upgrade Claims Aside|date=December 9, 2011|publisher=Courthouse News Service|access-date=December 16, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111215121132/http://www.courthousenews.com/2011/12/09/42126.htm|archive-date=December 15, 2011|url-status=live}}

{{As of|2014|01|df=US}}, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit partially reversed the dismissal and have sent the case back to the district court.{{cite web|url=http://www.topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/12043-appellate-court-puts-ps3-class-action-lawsuit-back-game/|title=Appellate Court Puts PS3 Class Action Lawsuit Back in the Game|date=January 8, 2014|access-date=February 4, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222003054/http://www.topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/12043-appellate-court-puts-ps3-class-action-lawsuit-back-game/|archive-date=February 22, 2014|url-status=live}}

On March 1, 2010 (UTC), many of the original PlayStation 3 models worldwide were experiencing errors related to their internal system clock. The error had many symptoms. Initially, the main problem seemed to be the inability to connect to the PlayStation Network. However, the root cause of the problem was unrelated to the PlayStation Network, since even users who had never been online also had problems playing installed offline games (which queried the system timer as part of startup) and using system themes. At the same time, many users noted that the console's clock had gone back to December 31, 1999. The event was nicknamed the ApocalyPS3, a play on the word apocalypse and PS3, the abbreviation for the PlayStation 3 console.{{cite web |author= Previous post Next post |url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2010/03/apocalyps3/ |title=ApocalyPS3: Buggy Clock Drives PlayStation 3 Haywire | GameLife |website=Wired.com |date=March 1, 2010 |access-date=August 25, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100902081057/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2010/03/apocalyps3/ |archive-date=September 2, 2010 |url-status=live }}

The error code displayed was typically 8001050F and affected users were unable to sign in, play games, use dynamic themes, and view/sync trophies.[https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/sony/7344758/Sony-PS3-network-glitch-affects-thousands.html Sony PS3 network glitch affects thousands] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418035612/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/sony/7344758/Sony-PS3-network-glitch-affects-thousands.html |date=April 18, 2018 }} The Daily Telegraph, March 1, 2010, The problem only resided within the first- through third-generation original PS3 units while the newer "Slim" models were unaffected because of different internal hardware for the clock.

Sony confirmed that there was an error and stated that it was narrowing down the issue and were continuing to work to restore service.{{cite web|url=http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/03/01/playstation-network-status-update/|title=PlayStation Network Status Update – PlayStation.Blog.Europe|work=blog.eu.playstation.com|date=March 2010|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|access-date=August 25, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100715142033/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2010/03/01/playstation-network-status-update/|archive-date=July 15, 2010|url-status=live}} By March 2 (UTC), 2010, owners of original PS3 models could connect to PSN successfully and the clock no longer showed December 31, 1999.{{cite web |url=https://www.engadget.com/2010/03/01/ps3-issues-apparently-resolved-game-on/ |title=PS3 issues apparently resolved, game on |date=March 2, 2010 |publisher=Engadget |access-date=August 25, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100503221220/http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/01/ps3-issues-apparently-resolved-game-on/ |archive-date=May 3, 2010 |url-status=live }} Sony stated that the affected models incorrectly identified 2010 as a leap year, because of a bug in the BCD method of storing the date.{{cite web|url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10461881-1.html|title=PS3 console errors fixed, leap year bug to blame|first=Jeff|last=Bakalar|publisher=CNET.com|date=March 1, 2010|access-date=March 2, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617081239/http://news.cnet.com/8301-17938_105-10461881-1.html|archive-date=June 17, 2011|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/02/technology/02sony.html|title=Error Blocked PlayStation 3 From Using Its Network |first=Hiroko |last=Tabuchi |author-link=Hiroko Tabuchi |newspaper=New York Times |date=March 1, 2010 |access-date=March 2, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100305065339/http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/02/technology/02sony.html |archive-date=March 5, 2010 |url-status=live}} However, for some users, the hardware's operating system clock (mainly updated from the internet and not associated with the internal clock) needed to be updated manually or by re-syncing it via the internet.

On June 29, 2010, Sony released PS3 system software update 3.40, which improved the functionality of the internal clock to properly account for leap years.{{cite web|url=http://us.playstation.com/ps3/features/ps_ps3_softwareupdates.html|title=PlayStation 3 Features Software Updates|access-date=September 3, 2010|publisher=Sony|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100305182405/http://us.playstation.com/ps3/features/ps_ps3_softwareupdates.html|archive-date=March 5, 2010|url-status=live}}

{{Main|Remote Play|PlayStation Store (PC) for PSP}}

PlayStation Portable can connect with PlayStation 3 in many ways, including in-game connectivity. For example, Formula One Championship Edition, a racing game, was shown at E3 2006 using a PSP as a real-time rear-view mirror.{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/05/09/e3-2006-formula-one-06-resurfaces|title=E3 2006: Formula One 06 Resurfaces |access-date=June 11, 2020 |last=Haynes |first=Jeff |date=May 8, 2006 |publisher=IGN |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070216113222/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/705/705926p1.html |archive-date=February 16, 2007 |url-status=live }} In addition, users are able to download original PlayStation format games from the PlayStation Store, transfer and play them on PSP as well as PS3 itself.{{cite web |url=https://gizmodo.com/gadgets/home-entertainment/downloadable-ps1-games-hit-the-psp-provided-you-have-a-ps3-220164.php |title=Downloadable PS1 Games Hit The PSP (Provided You Have a PS3) |access-date=January 21, 2007 |last=Deleon |first=Nicholas |date=December 7, 2006 |website=Gizmodo |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070122194019/http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/home-entertainment/downloadable-ps1-games-hit-the-psp-provided-you-have-a-ps3-220164.php |archive-date=January 22, 2007 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3154561 |title=Phil Harrison Talks Downloadable PS1 Games on PS3 |access-date=April 3, 2007 |last=Kennedy |first=Sam |date=October 20, 2006 |publisher=1up.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091001182148/http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3154561 |archive-date=October 1, 2009 }} It is also possible to use the Remote Play feature to play these and some PlayStation Network games, remotely on PSP over a network or internet connection.

Sony has also demonstrated PSP playing back video content from PlayStation 3 hard disk across an ad hoc wireless network. This feature is referred to as Remote Play located under the browser icon on both PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable. Remote play has since expanded to allow remote access to PS3 via PSP from any wireless access point in the world.{{cite web |url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/740/740689p1.html |title=PSP and PS3 Play Together |access-date=January 21, 2007 |last=Nix |first=Marc |date=October 20, 2006 |publisher=IGN PSP |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070105144336/http://psp.ign.com/articles/740/740689p1.html |archive-date=January 5, 2007 |url-status=dead }}{{Clear}}

{{Main|PlayStation Network}}

PlayStation Network is the unified online multiplayer gaming and digital media delivery service provided by Sony Computer Entertainment for PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable, announced during the 2006 PlayStation Business Briefing meeting in Tokyo. The service is always connected,{{cite web|title=PlayStation 3 announced for 2006|website=GameSpot|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/05/16/news_6124681.html|date=May 16, 2005|access-date=April 4, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110804220936/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6124681/playstation-3-announced-for-2006|archive-date=August 4, 2011|url-status=live}} free,{{cite web| url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSN| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201043654/http://www.us.playstation.com/PSN | archive-date=December 1, 2008| title=Official PlayStation Website| publisher=SCEA| access-date=January 15, 2008}} and includes multiplayer support.{{cite web| url=http://www.playstationdirect.net/| title=PlayStation Direct.net| publisher=PlayStation Direct.net| access-date=August 6, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100725122527/http://www.playstationdirect.net/| archive-date=July 25, 2010| url-status=dead| df=mdy-all}} The network enables online gaming, the PlayStation Store, PlayStation Home and other services. PlayStation Network uses real currency and PlayStation Network Cards as seen with the PlayStation Store and PlayStation Home.

{{Main|PlayStation Plus}}

PlayStation Plus (commonly abbreviated PS+ and occasionally referred to as PSN Plus) is a premium PlayStation Network subscription service that was officially unveiled at E3 2010 by Jack Tretton, President and CEO of SCEA.{{cite news|url=https://www.engadget.com/2010/06/15/playstation-plus-announced-50-year/|title=PlayStation Plus Announced at E3: $50/Year|author=Joseph L. Flatley|publisher=Engadget|date=June 15, 2010|access-date=October 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222100138/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/15/playstation-plus-announced-50-year/|archive-date=December 22, 2015|url-status=live}} Rumors of such service had been in speculation since Kaz Hirai's announcement at TGS 2009 of a possible paid service for PSN but with the current PSN service still available. Launched alongside PS3 firmware 3.40 and PSP firmware 6.30 on June 29, 2010, the paid-for subscription service provides users with enhanced services on the PlayStation Network, on top of the current PSN service which is still available with all of its features. These enhancements include the ability to have demos and game updates download automatically to PlayStation 3. Subscribers also get early or exclusive access to some betas, game demos, premium downloadable content, and other PlayStation Store items. North American users also get a free subscription to Qore. Users may choose to purchase either a one-year or a three-month subscription to PlayStation Plus.{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5575419/what-do-you-get-with-playstation-plus|title=What Do You Get with PlayStation Plus?|first=Mike|last=Fahey|website=Kotaku|date=June 29, 2010|access-date=October 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150918162609/http://kotaku.com/5575419/what-do-you-get-with-playstation-plus|archive-date=September 18, 2015|url-status=live}}{{Clear}}

{{Main|PlayStation Store}}

The PlayStation Store is an online virtual market available to users of Sony's PlayStation 3 (PS3) and PlayStation Portable (PSP) game consoles via the PlayStation Network. The Store offers a range of downloadable content both for purchase and available free of charge. Available content includes full games, add-on content, playable demos, themes and game and movie trailers. The service is accessible through an icon on the XMB on PS3 and PSP. The PS3 store can also be accessed on PSP via a Remote Play connection to PS3. The PSP store is also available via the PC application, Media Go. {{As of|2009|9|24|df=US}}, there have been over 600 million downloads from the PlayStation Store worldwide.{{cite web|url= https://www.ign.com/articles/2009/09/23/tgs-2009-keynote-address|title=TGS 2009: Keynote Address|website=IGN|date=September 23, 2009|access-date=June 11, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120517071824/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/102/1027747p1.html|archive-date=May 17, 2012|url-status=live}}

The PlayStation Store is updated with new content each Tuesday in North America, and each Wednesday in PAL regions.{{cite web|title=PSN Thursday no more: say hello to PSN Tuesday and Wednesday|url=http://joystiq.com/2010/04/15/psn-thursday-no-more-say-hello-to-psn-tuesday-and-wednesday/|access-date=August 2, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100820001539/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/psn-thursday-no-more-say-hello-to-psn-tuesday-and-wednesday|archive-date=August 20, 2010|url-status=dead}} In May 2010 this was changed from Thursdays to allow PSP games to be released digitally, closer to the time they are released on UMD.{{cite web|url=http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2010/04/23/psn-store-day-move-not-due-to-360/|title=PSN Store Day Move Not Due To 360|work=TheSixthAxis |publisher=Thesixthaxis.com|date=April 23, 2010|access-date=August 2, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100628045936/http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2010/04/23/psn-store-day-move-not-due-to-360/|archive-date=June 28, 2010|url-status=live}}{{Clear}}

On March 29, 2021, Sony announced that it would shut down the PS3 version of the Store on July 2, though previous purchases on the store will remain downloadable.{{cite web | url = https://kotaku.com/sony-closing-playstation-store-on-ps3-vita-and-psp-th-1846575103| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://kotaku.com/sony-closing-playstation-store-on-ps3-vita-and-psp-th-1846575103| archive-date=2021-10-08 | title = Sony Closing PlayStation Store On PS3, Vita, And PSP This Summer | first = Zack | last =Zwiezen | date = March 29, 2021 | accessdate = March 29, 2021 | work = Kotaku }}{{cbignore}} However, on April 19, following fan feedback, Sony reversed their decision and confirmed that the PS3 store would remain operational.{{Cite web|url=https://blog.playstation.com/2021/04/19/playstation-store-on-ps3-and-ps-vita-will-continue-operations/| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20211008/https://blog.playstation.com/2021/04/19/playstation-store-on-ps3-and-ps-vita-will-continue-operations/| archive-date=2021-10-08|title=PlayStation Store on PS3 and PS Vita Will Continue Operations|date=April 19, 2021}}{{cbignore}}

What's New was announced at Gamescom 2009 and was released on September 1, 2009, with PlayStation 3 system software 3.0.{{cite web|url=http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229653/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/|title=PlayStation Games & Media News: – Entertainment on PS3 has a new look|publisher=SCEE|access-date=August 18, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090821173909/http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229653/Entertainment-on-PS3-has-a-new-look/|archive-date=August 21, 2009|url-status=live}} The feature was to replace the existing [Information Board], which displayed news from the PlayStation website associated with the user's region. The concept was developed further into a major PlayStation Network feature, which interacts with the [Status Indicator] to display a ticker of all content, excluding recently played content (currently in North America and Japan only).{{Citation needed|date=February 2025}}

The system displays the What's New screen by default instead of the [Games] menu (or [Video] menu, if a movie was inserted) when starting up. What's New has four sections: "Our Pick", "Recently Played", the latest information, and new content available in PlayStation Store. There are four kinds of content the What's New screen displays and links to, on the sections. "Recently Played" displays the user's recently played games and online services only, whereas, the other sections can contain website links, links to play videos, and access to selected sections of the PlayStation Store.{{Citation needed|date=February 2025}}

The PlayStation Store icons in the [Game] and [Video] section act similarly to the What's New screen, except that they only display and link to games and videos in the PlayStation Store, respectively.{{Citation needed|date=February 2025}}{{Clear}}

{{Main|PlayStation Home}}

PlayStation Home was a virtual 3D social networking service for the PlayStation Network.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/gdc-phil-harrisons-keynote-speech|title=GDC: Phil Harrison's Keynote Speech|publisher=Games Industry|date=May 16, 2007|access-date=October 8, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206011938/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/gdc-phil-harrisons-keynote-speech|archive-date=December 6, 2008|url-status=live}} Home allowed users to create a custom avatar, which could be groomed realistically.{{cite web| url=https://www.engadget.com/2007/03/07/playstation-home-revealed/| title=PlayStation Home unveiled| date=March 7, 2007| publisher=Engadget| access-date=January 15, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080115020734/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/07/playstation-home-revealed/| archive-date=January 15, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}{{cite web| url=https://www.engadget.com/2007/03/07/joystiq-and-engadget-live-at-sonys-2007-gdc-keynote/| title=GDC 2007 Sony keynote speech| date=March 8, 2007| publisher=Engadget| access-date=January 15, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080119185556/http://www.engadget.com/2007/03/07/joystiq-and-engadget-live-at-sonys-2007-gdc-keynote/| archive-date=January 19, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} Users could edit and decorate their personal apartments, avatars, or club houses with free, premium, or won content. Users could shop for new items or win prizes from PS3 games, or Home activities. Users could interact and connect with friends and customize content in a virtual world.{{cite web| url=http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/playstation-home-the-free-virtual-world-of-playstation-3/| title=PlayStation Home, the free virtual world of PlayStation 3| date=March 7, 2007| publisher=JoyStiq| access-date=January 15, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201192127/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/07/playstation-home-the-free-virtual-world-of-playstation-3| archive-date=February 1, 2009| url-status=dead| df=mdy-all}} Home also acted as a meeting place for users that wanted to play multiplayer video games with others.

A closed beta began in Europe from May 2007 and expanded to other territories soon after.{{cite web |url= https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/05/01/europeans-go-home|title=Europeans Go Home |date=May 1, 2007 |publisher=IGN |access-date=May 2, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070512120815/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/784/784759p1.html |archive-date=May 12, 2007 |url-status=live }} Home was delayed and expanded{{cite web| url = http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/09/19/playstation-home-beta-extended-today/| title = PlayStation Home Beta Extended Today| work = PlayStation.Blog| date = September 19, 2008| access-date = May 21, 2009| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080921232542/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/09/19/playstation-home-beta-extended-today/| archive-date = September 21, 2008| url-status=live| df = mdy-all}} several times before initially releasing.{{cite web|url=http://www.virtualworldsnews.com/2007/09/sony-home-delay.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090212144106/http://www.virtualworldsnews.com/2007/09/sony-home-delay.html|archive-date=February 12, 2009|title=Virtual Worlds News: Sony Home Delayed to Spring 2008|publisher=Virtual Worlds News|date=September 20, 2007|access-date=July 1, 2009}}{{cite web|url=http://www.platformnation.com/2008/04/21/playstation-home-not-open-till-fall-of-08/|title=PlayStation Home not open till fall of 08|publisher=Platform Nation|date=April 22, 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090208174632/http://www.platformnation.com/2008/04/21/playstation-home-not-open-till-fall-of-08/|archive-date=February 8, 2009}} The Open Beta test was started on December 11, 2008. It remained as a perpetual beta until its closure on March 31, 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sonys-virtual-world-playstation-home-closing-its-d/1100-6422590/|title=Playstation Home Closing Its Doors After 6 Years|date=September 26, 2014|access-date=June 14, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160608142206/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/sonys-virtual-world-playstation-home-closing-its-d/1100-6422590/|archive-date=June 8, 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://community.us.playstation.com/t5/PlayStation-Home/PlayStation-Home-Update-September-26-2014/td-p/44552202 |title=PlayStation Home Update – September 26, 2014 |date=September 26, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140929181213/http://community.us.playstation.com/t5/PlayStation-Home/PlayStation-Home-Update-September-26-2014/td-p/44552202 |archive-date=September 29, 2014 }} Home was available directly from the PlayStation 3 XrossMediaBar. Membership was free, but required a PSN account.

Home featured places to meet and interact, dedicated game spaces, developer spaces, company spaces, and events. The service underwent a weekly maintenance and frequent updates.{{cite web|url=http://playstationlifestyle.net/2011/08/23/playstation-home-over-23-million-strong-evolving-with-a-new-major-redesign/|title=PlayStation Home – Over 23 Million Strong, Evolving With A New Major Redesign|date=August 23, 2011|last=Contreras|first=Paulmichael|publisher=PlayStation LifeStyle|access-date=November 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120113135302/http://playstationlifestyle.net/2011/08/23/playstation-home-over-23-million-strong-evolving-with-a-new-major-redesign/|archive-date=January 13, 2012|url-status=live}} At the time of its closure in March 2015, Home had been downloaded by over 41 million users. {{Clear}}

{{Main|Life with PlayStation}}

File:LifeWithPlayStation Weather.jpg. Screenshot taken at approximately 8pm PST]]

Life with PlayStation, released on September 18, 2008{{cite web|url= http://www.playstation.com/life/en/index.html|title= Life with PlayStation|date= September 18, 2009|publisher= PlayStation.com|access-date= October 7, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121113072624/http://www.playstation.com/life/en/index.html|archive-date= November 13, 2012|df= mdy-all}} to succeed Folding@home, was retired November 6, 2012. Life with PlayStation used virtual globe data to display news and information by city. Along with Folding@home functionality, the application provided access to three other information "channels", the first being the Live Channel offering news headlines and weather which were provided by Google News, The Weather Channel, the University of Wisconsin–Madison Space Science and Engineering Center, among other sources.{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5051551/life-with-playstation-out-now|title=Life With PlayStation out now|website=Kotaku|date=September 18, 2008 |access-date=October 14, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090926061219/http://kotaku.com/5051551/life-with-playstation-out-now|archive-date=September 26, 2009|url-status=live}} The second channel was the World Heritage channel which offered historical information about historical sites. The third channel was the United Village channel. United Village was designed to share information about communities and cultures worldwide.{{cite web|url= http://www.united-village.net/en/about.html|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100920094215/http://www.united-village.net/en/about.html|archive-date= September 20, 2010|title= United Village|access-date= October 1, 2009}} An update allowed video and photo viewing in the application. The fourth channel was the U.S. exclusive PlayStation Network Game Trailers Channel for direct streaming of game trailers.

{{Main|2011 PlayStation Network outage}}

On April 20, 2011, Sony shut down the PlayStation Network and Qriocity for a prolonged interval, revealing on April 23 that this was due to "an external intrusion on our system". Sony later revealed that the personal information of 77 million users might have been taken, including: names; addresses; countries; email addresses; birthdates; PSN/Qriocity logins, passwords and handles/PSN online IDs.{{cite web|url=http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2011/04/26/psnqriocity-service-update/|title=PSN/Qriocity Service Update — PlayStation.Blog.Europe|date=April 26, 2011|access-date=May 5, 2011|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|work=blog.eu.playstation.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110502023850/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2011/04/26/psnqriocity-service-update/|archive-date=May 2, 2011|url-status=live}} It also stated that it was possible that users' profile data, including purchase history and billing address, and PlayStation Network/Qriocity password security answers may have been obtained. There was no evidence that any credit card data had been taken, but the possibility could not be ruled out, and Sony advised customers that their credit card data may have been obtained.{{cite web|url=http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2011/04/28/playstation-network-and-qriocity-outage-faq/|title=PlayStation Network and Qriocity Outage FAQ — PlayStation.Blog.Europe|date=April 28, 2011|access-date=May 5, 2011|publisher=PlayStation.Blog|work=blog.eu.playstation.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110504174033/http://blog.eu.playstation.com/2011/04/28/playstation-network-and-qriocity-outage-faq/|archive-date=May 4, 2011|url-status=dead}} Additionally, the credit card numbers were encrypted and Sony never collected the three digit CVC or CSC number from the back of the credit cards which is required for authenticating some transactions.{{cite news|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2384561,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03069TX1K0001121|title=PlayStation Network Credit Card Data Encrypted, Sony Says|first=Chloe|last=Albanesius|date=April 28, 2011|work=PC Magazine|access-date=September 8, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704104107/http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2384561,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03069TX1K0001121|archive-date=July 4, 2017|url-status=live}} In response to the incident, Sony announced a "Welcome Back" program, 30 days free membership of PlayStation Plus for all PSN members, two free downloadable PS3 games, and a free one-year enrollment in an identity theft protection program.{{cite web |author=Wesley Yin-Poole |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-05-01-psn-sony-outlines-welcome-back-gifts |title=PSN: Sony outlines "Welcome Back" gifts News – PlayStation 3 – Page 1 |publisher=Eurogamer.net |date=May 1, 2011 |access-date=May 9, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110505060017/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2011-05-01-psn-sony-outlines-welcome-back-gifts |archive-date=May 5, 2011 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gamehunters/post/2011/05/playstation-network-nears-restoration-users-get-id-theft-protection/1 |title=PlayStation Network nears restoration; users get ID theft protection – Game Hunters: In search of video games and interactive awesomeness – USATODAY.com |publisher=Content.usatoday.com |date=May 5, 2011 |access-date=May 9, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110509064111/http://content.usatoday.com/communities/gamehunters/post/2011/05/playstation-network-nears-restoration-users-get-id-theft-protection/1 |archive-date=May 9, 2011 |url-status=live }}

Although its PlayStation predecessors had been very dominant against the competition and were hugely profitable for Sony, PlayStation 3 had an inauspicious start, and Sony chairman and CEO Sir Howard Stringer initially could not convince investors of a turnaround in its fortunes. The PS3 lacked the unique gameplay of the more affordable Wii which became that generation's most successful console in terms of units sold. Furthermore, PS3 had to compete directly with Xbox 360 which had a market head start, and as a result the platform no longer had exclusive titles that the PS2 enjoyed such as the Grand Theft Auto and Final Fantasy series (regarding cross-platform games, Xbox 360 versions were generally considered superior in 2006, although by 2008 the PS3 versions had reached parity or surpassed),{{cite web |last=Shah |first=Sarju |url=http://www.gamespot.com/features/xbox-360-versus-playstation-3-graphics-comparison-round-3-6191251/ |title=Xbox 360 Versus PlayStation 3 Graphics Comparison: Round 3 |publisher=GameSpot.com |date=May 23, 2008 |access-date=July 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120717090001/http://www.gamespot.com/features/xbox-360-versus-playstation-3-graphics-comparison-round-3-6191251/ |archive-date=July 17, 2012 |url-status=live }} and it took longer than expected for PS3 to enjoy strong sales and close the gap with Xbox 360. Sony also continued to lose money on each PS3 sold through 2010,{{cite web |last=Reisinger |first=Don |url=http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-57369469-17/why-sony-needed-to-swap-out-its-ceo/ |title=Why Sony needed to swap out its CEO | The Digital Home – CNET News |publisher=News.cnet.com |date=February 1, 2012 |access-date=July 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810193720/http://news.cnet.com/8301-13506_3-57369469-17/why-sony-needed-to-swap-out-its-ceo/ |archive-date=August 10, 2012 |url-status=live }} although the redesigned "slim" PS3 cut these losses.{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/28/ps3-profitable-price-cut-unlikely|title=PS3 Profitable, Price Cut Unlikely|date=June 28, 2010|access-date=November 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130617233909/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/28/ps3-profitable-price-cut-unlikely|archive-date=June 17, 2013|url-status=live}}

PlayStation 3's initial production cost is estimated by iSuppli to have been US$805.85 for the 20 GB model and US$840.35 for the 60 GB model.Sources:

• {{cite web| url = http://www.next-gen.biz/news/isuppli-60gb-ps3-costs-840-produce| title = iSuppli: 60 GB PS3 Costs $840 to Produce| work = www.next-gen.biz| date = November 16, 2006| url-status=dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20111004022638/http://www.next-gen.biz/news/isuppli-60gb-ps3-costs-840-produce| archive-date = October 4, 2011| df = mdy-all}}
• {{Cite journal|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070927131539/http://www.isuppli.com/news/default.asp?id=6919|url = http://www.isuppli.com/news/default.asp?id=6919|archive-date = September 27, 2007|date = November 16, 2006|website = www.isuppli.com|publisher = iSuppli|title = iSuppli Corporation : Applied Market Intelligence : PlayStation 3 Offers Supercomputer Performance at PC Pricing, iSuppli's Teardown Analysis Reveals}} However, they were priced at US$499 and US$599, respectively, meaning that units may have been sold at an estimated loss of $306 or $241 depending on model, if the cost estimates were correct,{{Cite journal| url = http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/nov2006/tc20061116_736188.htm| title = Nothing Cheap About the PS3| first = Arik| last = Hesseldahl| date = November 16, 2006| website = www.businessweek.com| publisher = Bloomberg| access-date = October 4, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110628201250/http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/nov2006/tc20061116_736188.htm| archive-date = June 28, 2011| url-status=dead| df = mdy-all}} and thus may have contributed to Sony's games division posting an operating loss of ¥232.3 billion (US$1.97 billion) in the fiscal year ending March 2007.{{cite news |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/ps3-launch-damages-sony-profits |title=PS3 launch hits Sony profits |publisher=GamesIndustry.biz |date=May 16, 2007 |access-date=August 31, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080417040843/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/ps3-launch-damages-sony-profits |archive-date=April 17, 2008 |url-status=live }} In April 2007, soon after these results were published, Ken Kutaragi, President of Sony Computer Entertainment, announced plans to retire. Various news agencies, including The Times{{cite news |title=PlayStation boss pays the price of weak sales |newspaper=Times Online |date=April 27, 2007 |url=http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article1712432.ece |access-date=April 27, 2007 |location=London |first1=Dan |last1=Sabbagh |first2=Siobhan |last2=Kennedy |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612002602/http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article1712432.ece |archive-date=June 12, 2011 |url-status=dead }} and The Wall Street Journal{{cite web |url=http://psp.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/2 |title=Sony's Ken Kutaragi announces plans to retire |publisher=Joystiq |first=Christopher |last=Grant |date=April 26, 2007 |access-date=July 3, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012014709/http://psp.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/2 |archive-date=October 12, 2007 |url-status=dead }} reported that this was due to poor sales, while SCEI maintains that Kutaragi had been planning his retirement for six months prior to the announcement.

In January 2008, Kaz Hirai, CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment, suggested that the console may start making a profit by early 2009, stating that, "the next fiscal year starts in April and if we can try to achieve that in the next fiscal year that would be a great thing" and that "[profitability] is not a definite commitment, but that is what I would like to try to shoot for".{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKN0737530820080107?feedType=RSS&feedName=technology-media-telco-SP|title=Sony's Hirai eyes PS3 profit as costs decline|access-date=April 22, 2008|date=January 7, 2008|work=Reuters|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090827085809/http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKN0737530820080107?feedType=RSS&feedName=technology-media-telco-SP|archive-date=August 27, 2009|url-status=dead}} However, market analysts Nikko Citigroup have predicted that PlayStation 3 could be profitable by August 2008.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/ps3-profitable-by-august-say-nikko-citigroup-analysts|title=PS3 profitable by August, say Nikko Citigroup analysts|access-date=April 22, 2008|date=April 21, 2008|publisher=GamesIndustry.biz|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080422200047/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/ps3-profitable-by-august-say-nikko-citigroup-analysts|archive-date=April 22, 2008|url-status=live}} In a July 2008 interview, Hirai stated that his objective is for PlayStation 3 to sell 150 million units by its ninth year, surpassing PlayStation 2's sales of 140 million in its nine years on the market.{{cite news |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/1c46ad2e-5678-11dd-8686-000077b07658.html |title=Sony sets 150 m sales target for PS3 |first=Chris |last=Nuttall |date=July 20, 2008 |newspaper=Financial Times |access-date=August 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080729154715/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/1c46ad2e-5678-11dd-8686-000077b07658.html |archive-date=July 29, 2008 |url-status=live }} In January 2009 Sony announced that their gaming division was profitable in Q3 2008.{{cite web |author=nofi |url=http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2009/01/29/sonys-game-division-in-profit/ |title=Sony's Game Division In Profit |work=TheSixthAxis |date=January 29, 2009 |access-date=March 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201064909/http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2009/01/29/sonys-game-division-in-profit/ |archive-date=February 1, 2009 |url-status=live }}

After the system's launch, production costs were reduced significantly as a result of phasing out the Emotion Engine chip and falling hardware costs.{{cite web|url=http://www.psu.com/news/2402 |title=Sony cuts PS3 production costs in half |access-date=January 22, 2008 |date=January 11, 2008 |publisher=psu.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105134516/http://www.psu.com/news/2402 |archive-date=January 5, 2012 }}{{cite web |url=http://playstation.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/playstation-3-manufacturing-costs-to-go-down-way-down/ |title=PlayStation 3 manufacturing costs to go down, way down |access-date=July 15, 2007 |date=February 8, 2007 |publisher=ps3fanboy.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090228051852/http://playstation.joystiq.com/2007/02/08/playstation-3-manufacturing-costs-to-go-down-way-down |archive-date=February 28, 2009 |url-status=dead }} The cost of manufacturing Cell microprocessors had fallen dramatically as a result of moving to the 65 nm production process,{{cite web |url=http://www.dailytech.com/IBM+Shrinks+Cell+Broadband+Engine+to+65nm+Process/article6454c.htm |title=IBM Shrinks Cell Broadband Engine to 65nm Process |access-date=July 15, 2007 |date=March 13, 2007 |publisher=dailytech.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927200958/http://www.dailytech.com/IBM+Shrinks+Cell+Broadband+Engine+to+65nm+Process/article6454c.htm |archive-date=September 27, 2007 |url-status=dead }} and Blu-ray Disc diodes had become cheaper to manufacture.{{cite web |url=http://gameinformer.com/News/Story/200705/N07.0507.1105.54109.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070509025332/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200705/N07.0507.1105.54109.htm |archive-date=May 9, 2007 |title=PlayStation 3 Production Costs Drop |access-date=July 15, 2007 |date=May 7, 2007 |url-status=dead |publisher=Game Informer}} As of January 2008, each unit cost around $400 to manufacture;{{cite magazine |url=http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jan2008/gb2008018_681920.htm |title=Sony's Blu-Ray Breakthrough |access-date=January 14, 2008 |date=January 8, 2008 |magazine=BusinessWeek |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080113121629/http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jan2008/gb2008018_681920.htm |archive-date=January 13, 2008 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/ps3-production-costs-halved-says-analyst |title=PS3 production costs halved, says analyst |access-date=January 14, 2008 |date=January 14, 2008 |publisher=www.gamesindustry.biz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402115555/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/ps3-production-costs-halved-says-analyst |archive-date=April 2, 2008 |url-status=live }} by August 2009, Sony had reduced costs by a total of 70%, meaning it only cost Sony around $240 per unit.{{cite web |url=http://gamersyndrome.com/2009/ps3/ps3-cheaper-make/ |title=PS3 70 percent cheaper to make |access-date=August 9, 2009 |date=August 1, 2009 |publisher=www.gamersyndrome.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100114231418/http://gamersyndrome.com/2009/ps3/ps3-cheaper-make/ |archive-date=January 14, 2010 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3175396 |title=PlayStation 3 Production Costs Slashed 70 Percent |first=Kat |last=Bailey |access-date=July 31, 2009 |date=August 22, 2009 |publisher=1up |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091001181749/http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3175396 |archive-date=October 1, 2009 }}{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/5327066/sony-ps3-manufacturing-costs-down-70-percent |title=Sony: PS3 Manufacturing Costs Down 70 Percent |first=Brian |last=Ashcraft |access-date=July 31, 2009 |date=August 22, 2009 |website=Kotaku |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090801130010/http://kotaku.com/5327066/sony-ps3-manufacturing-costs-down-70-percent |archive-date=August 1, 2009 |url-status=live }} The PlayStation 3's actual manufacturing cost at launch was never officially disclosed; SCE's Phil Harrison said in a 2019 interview that during the system's launch "it was a worry because 600 bucks was actually too cheap, because the machine was so expensive to make", before telling the interviewer that he can't disclose the real figure but that it would "make your eyebrows shoot clear off the top of your head".{{Cite web |date=November 2019 |title=Meet the Only Executive Who Worked for Both PlayStation and Xbox |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CId0zKlOmgg |website=YouTube |publisher=IGN |quote=}}{{Clear}}

Early PlayStation 3 reviews after launch were critical of its high price and lack of quality games. Game developers regarded the architecture as difficult to program for. PS3 was, however, commended for its hardware including its Blu-ray home theater capabilities and graphics potential.{{cite web |url=http://www.trustedreviews.com/video-games/review/2007/03/23/Sony-PlayStation-3/p15 |title=Sony PlayStation 3 |first=Riyad |last=Emeran |publisher=Trustedreviews.com |date=March 23, 2007 |access-date=July 10, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090516010002/http://www.trustedreviews.com/video-games/review/2007/03/23/Sony-PlayStation-3/p15 |archive-date=May 16, 2009 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/reviews/index.cfm?reviewid=698 |title=First review: PlayStation 3 |date=March 1, 2007 |first=Danny |last=Allen |publisher=PC Advisor |access-date=July 10, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070717133334/http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/reviews/index.cfm?reviewid=698 |archive-date=July 17, 2007 |url-status=live }}

Critical and commercial reception to PS3 improved over time, after a series of price revisions, Blu-ray's victory over HD DVD,{{cite press release |url=http://www.toshiba.co.jp/about/press/2008_02/pr1903.htm |title=Toshiba Announces Discontinuation of HD DVD Businesses |publisher=Toshiba |date=February 19, 2008 |access-date=August 31, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914081937/http://www.toshiba.co.jp/about/press/2008_02/pr1903.htm |archive-date=September 14, 2008 |url-status=live }} and the release of several well received titles. Ars Technica{{'}}s original launch review gave PS3 only a 6/10, but second review of the console in June 2008 rated it a 9/10.{{cite web| url=https://arstechnica.com/hardware/reviews/2008/06/playstation-3-blu-ray.ars| title=They say it got smart: a 2008 review of the PS3| date=June 4, 2008| first=Ben| last=Kuchera| website=Ars Technica| access-date=June 10, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201140156/http://arstechnica.com/hardware/reviews/2008/06/playstation-3-blu-ray.ars| archive-date=February 1, 2009| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} In September 2009, IGN named PlayStation 3 the 15th-best gaming console of all time, behind both of its competitors: Wii (10th) and Xbox 360 (6th).{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/top-25-consoles/15.html|title=PlayStation 3 is number 15|publisher=IGN Entertainment|access-date=October 15, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090906015812/http://www.ign.com/top-25-consoles/15.html|archive-date=September 6, 2009|url-status=live}} However, PS3 has won IGN's "Console Showdown"—based on which console offers the best selection of games released during each year—in three of the four years since it began (2008, 2009 and 2011, with Xbox winning in 2010).{{cite web |first=Cam |last=Shea |url=http://games.ign.com/articles/121/1215432p1.html |title=Console Showdown 2011: Winner Announced! – Games Feature at IGN |publisher=Games.ign.com |access-date=July 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120517072011/http://games.ign.com/articles/121/1215432p1.html |archive-date=May 17, 2012 |url-status=dead }} IGN judged PlayStation 3 to have the best game line-up of 2008, based on their review scores in comparison to those of Wii and Xbox 360.{{cite web |last=Shea |first=Cam |url= https://www.ign.com/articles/2008/12/18/aussie-console-showdown-08-ps3-vs-wii-vs-360 |title=Aussie Console Showdown 08: PS3 vs. Wii vs. 360 |publisher=IGN |date=December 18, 2008|access-date=June 11, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090209055325/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/939/939461p2.html |archive-date=February 9, 2009 |url-status=live }} In a comparison piece by PC Magazine{{'}}s Will Greenwald in June 2012, PS3 was selected as an overall better console compared to Xbox 360.{{cite magazine |last=Greenwald |first=Will |url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2405305,00.asp |title=Xbox 360 vs. PlayStation 3: Which Console Wins the Gaming Game |magazine=PCMag.com |date=June 7, 2012 |access-date=July 19, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120802211208/http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2405305,00.asp |archive-date=August 2, 2012 |url-status=live }}

Pocket-Lint said of the console "The PS3 has always been a brilliant games console," and that "For now, this is just about the best media device for the money."

PS3 was given the number-eight spot on PC World magazine's list of "The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006", where it was criticized for being "Late, Expensive and Incompatible".{{cite magazine |url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/128265-4/the_top_21_tech_screwups_of_2006.html |title=The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006 |access-date=February 3, 2007 |last=Tynan |first=Dan |date=December 20, 2006 |magazine=PC World |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080707130337/http://www.pcworld.com/article/128265-4/the_top_21_tech_screwups_of_2006.html |archive-date=July 7, 2008 |url-status=live }} GamesRadar ranked PS3 as the top item in a feature on game-related PR disasters, asking how Sony managed to "take one of the most anticipated game systems of all time and—within the space of a year—turn it into a hate object reviled by the entire internet", but added that despite its problems the system has "untapped potential".{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/ps3/f/the-top-7-pr-disasters/a-2007031912215876016/g-20060314115917309058/p-7 |title=The Top 7... PR disasters |access-date=March 21, 2007 |last=Reparaz |first=Mikel |date=March 21, 2007 |publisher=GamesRadar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101226043618/http://www.gamesradar.com/ps3/f/the-top-7-pr-disasters/a-2007031912215876016/g-20060314115917309058/p-7 |archive-date=December 26, 2010 |url-status=live }} Business Week summed up the general opinion by stating that it was "more impressed with what the PlayStation 3 could do than with what it currently does".{{cite magazine |url=http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/nov2006/tc20061116_664610.htm |title=PS3: Soon to Be a Great System |first=Cliff |last=Edwards |magazine=Business Week |date=November 16, 2006 |access-date=July 10, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071022023213/http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/nov2006/tc20061116_664610.htm |archive-date=October 22, 2007 |url-status=dead }}

Developers also found the machine difficult to program for. In 2007, Gabe Newell of Valve said "The PS3 is a total disaster on so many levels, I think it's really clear that Sony lost track of what customers and what developers wanted". He continued "I'd say, even at this late date, they should just cancel it and do a do over. Just say, 'This was a horrible disaster and we're sorry and we're going to stop selling this and stop trying to convince people to develop for it'".{{cite web| url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=155309| title=Valve: PS3 a "total disaster on so many levels"| date=January 15, 2007| first=Stuart| last=Bishop| publisher=computerandvideogames.com| access-date=January 15, 2007| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070118000001/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=155309| archive-date=January 18, 2007| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}} Doug Lombardi VP of Marketing for Valve has since stated that Valve is interested in developing for the console and is looking to hire talented PS3 programmers for future projects.{{cite web|url=http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/valve-open-to-work-with-ps3-development.html|title=Valve open to work with PS3 development|date=July 5, 2009|publisher=Qj.net|access-date=March 15, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716121535/http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/valve-open-to-work-with-ps3-development.html|archive-date=July 16, 2011|url-status=live}} He later restated Valve's position, "Until we have the ability to get a PS3 team together, until we find the people who want to come to Valve or who are at Valve who want to work on that, I don't really see us moving to that platform".{{cite web| url = http://play.tm/news/25498/valve-dodge-ps3-development/| title = Valve dodge PS3 development| date = July 3, 2009| first = Luke| last = Guttridge| publisher = play.tm| access-date = July 13, 2009| url-status=dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090706132632/http://play.tm/news/25498/valve-dodge-ps3-development/| archive-date = July 6, 2009| df = mdy-all}} At Sony's E3 2010 press conference, Newell made a live appearance to recant his previous statements, citing Sony's move to make the system more developer-friendly, and to announce that Valve would be developing Portal 2 for the system. He also claimed that the inclusion of Steamworks (Valve's system to automatically update their software independently) would help to make the PS3 version of Portal 2 the best console version on the market.

Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick has criticized PS3's high development costs and inferior attach rate and return to that of Xbox 360 and Wii. He believes these factors are pushing developers away from working on the console. In an interview with The Times Kotick stated "I'm getting concerned about Sony; the PlayStation 3 is losing a bit of momentum and they don't make it easy for me to support the platform."{{cite news| url = http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article6531367.ece| title = Sony should beware — Activision chief is not simply playing games| date = June 19, 2009| first = Dan| last = Sabbagh| newspaper = The Times| access-date = July 13, 2009| location = London| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090708094917/http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/media/article6531367.ece| archive-date = July 8, 2009| url-status=dead| df = mdy-all}} He continued, "It's expensive to develop for the console, and the Wii and the Xbox are just selling better. Games generate a better return on invested capital (ROIC) on the Xbox than on the PlayStation." Kotick also claimed that Activision Blizzard may stop supporting the system if the situation is not addressed. "[Sony has] to cut the [PS3's retail] price, because if they don't, the attach rates are likely to slow. If we are being realistic, we might have to stop supporting Sony."{{cite web| url=http://www.develop-online.net/news/32222/Kotick-slams-PS3-for-high-dev-costs| title=Kotick slams PS3 for 'high' dev costs| date=June 19, 2009| first=Rob| last=Crossley| publisher=develop-online.| access-date=July 13, 2009| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090705205448/http://www.develop-online.net/news/32222/Kotick-slams-PS3-for-high-dev-costs| archive-date=July 5, 2009| url-status=dead| df=mdy-all}} Kotick received heavy criticism for the statement, notably from developer BioWare who questioned the wisdom of the threatened move, and referred to the statement as "silly."{{cite web |url = http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=219357 |title = BioWare: Activision PS3 comment "silly and biased towards what is popular." |access-date = July 19, 2009 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090717000546/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=219357 |archive-date = July 17, 2009 |url-status=live |df = mdy-all }}

Despite the initial negative press, several websites have given the system very good reviews mostly regarding its hardware. CNET United Kingdom praised the system saying, "the PS3 is a versatile and impressive piece of home-entertainment equipment that lives up to the hype [...] the PS3 is well worth its hefty price tag."{{cite web|url=http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/article.aspx?cp-documentid=4370234 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070328170257/http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/article.aspx?cp-documentid=4370234 |archive-date=March 28, 2007 |title=PS3 Reviewed |access-date=April 21, 2007 |last=Carnoy |first=Dave |date=March 2007 |publisher=CNet.co.uk}} CNET awarded it a score of 8.8 out of 10 and voted it as its number one "must-have" gadget,{{cite web |url=http://reviews.cnet.com/must-have-gadgets/ |title=Top 10 Must-haves |access-date=February 22, 2007 |author=CNET Staff |date=November 21, 2006 |website=CNET |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080506022823/http://reviews.cnet.com/must-have-gadgets/ |archive-date=May 6, 2008 |url-status=dead }} praising its robust graphical capabilities and stylish exterior design while criticizing its limited selection of available games.{{cite web |url=http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-60gb/4505-10109_7-31355103.html |title=Sony PlayStation 3 (60 GB) Reviews |access-date=February 3, 2007 |last=Carnoy |first=David |date=November 14, 2006 |website=CNET |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070517201609/http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-60gb/4505-10109_7-31355103.html |archive-date=May 17, 2007 |url-status=live }} In addition, both Home Theater Magazine and Ultimate AV have given the system's Blu-ray playback very favorable reviews, stating that the quality of playback exceeds that of many current standalone Blu-ray Disc players.{{cite web |url=http://www.hometheatermag.com/discplayers/1206playstation3/ |title=Sony PlayStation 3 |access-date=February 22, 2007 |last=Chiarella |first=Chris |date=December 2006 |work=Home Theater Magazine |publisher=Primedia Magazines, Inc. |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090828004603/http://www.hometheatermag.com/discplayers/1206playstation3/ |archive-date=August 28, 2009 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.ultimateavmag.com/hddiscplayers/1206ps3blu/index3.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070120005118/http://www.ultimateavmag.com/hddiscplayers/1206ps3blu/index3.html|archive-date=January 20, 2007 |title=PlayStation3 Blu-ray Disc Player |access-date=February 22, 2007 |last=Buettner |first=Shane C. |date=December 2006 |publisher=Primedia Magazines, Inc. |pages=4 of 6}}

In an interview, Kazuo Hirai, chairman of Sony Computer Entertainment argued for the choice of a complex architecture.{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/hirai-were-the-official-industry-leader|title=Hirai: We're the "official" industry leader|website=Eurogamer|quote=We don't provide the easy to program for console that [developers] want, because easy to program for means that anybody will be able to take advantage of pretty much what the hardware can do, so then the question is what do you do for the rest of the nine-and-a-half years?|date=January 20, 2009|access-date=October 31, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090905151613/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/hirai-were-the-official-industry-leader|archive-date=September 5, 2009|url-status=live}} Hexus Gaming reviewed the PAL version and summed the review up by saying, "as the PlayStation 3 matures and developers start really pushing it, we'll see the PlayStation 3 emerge as the console of choice for gaming."{{cite web |url=http://gaming.hexus.net/content/item.php?item=8185&page=6 |title=Review : Sony PlayStation 3 |access-date=April 25, 2007 |last=Haywood |first=Nick |date=March 23, 2007 |publisher=HEXUS.gaming |pages=6 of 6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101202030656/http://gaming.hexus.net/content/item.php?item=8185 |archive-date=December 2, 2010 |url-status=live }} At GDC 2007, Shiny Entertainment founder Dave Perry stated, "I think that Sony has made the best machine. It's the best piece of hardware, without question".{{cite web |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/gdc-whats-next-for-ps3 |title=GDC: What's Next for PS3? |access-date=April 25, 2007 |last=Gibson |first=Ellie |date=March 7, 2007 |publisher=GamesIndustry.biz |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080418075204/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/gdc-whats-next-for-ps3 |archive-date=April 18, 2008 |url-status=live }}

The PlayStation 3 Slim received extremely positive reviews as well as a boost in sales; less than 24 hours after its announcement, PS3 Slim took the number-one bestseller spot on Amazon.com in the video games section for fifteen consecutive days. It regained the number-one position again one day later.{{cite web |title=PS3 Slim gets back Bestseller top spot on Amazon |url=http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/ps3-slim-gets-back-bestseller-top-spot-on-amazon.html |date=September 1, 2009 |publisher=qj.net |access-date=September 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929111959/http://www.qj.net/qjnet/playstation-3/ps3-slim-gets-back-bestseller-top-spot-on-amazon.html |archive-date=September 29, 2011 |url-status=live |last1=A. |first1=Mabie }} PS3 Slim also received praise from PC World giving it a 90 out of 100 praising its new repackaging and the new value it brings at a lower price as well as praising its quietness and the reduction in its power consumption. This is in stark contrast to the original PS3's launch in which it was given position number-eight on their "The Top 21 Tech Screwups of 2006" list.{{cite magazine |title=Priced right, Sony's slim-line PlayStation 3 (120 GB) bundles the top-notch features of the earlier PlayStation 3 into a smarter, sleeker package |url=http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/product/301007/review/playstation_3.html |date=September 2, 2009 |magazine=PC World |access-date=September 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090903151648/http://www.pcworld.com/reviews/product/301007/review/playstation_3.html |archive-date=September 3, 2009 |url-status=live }}

CNET awarded PS3 Slim four out of five stars praising its Blu-ray capabilities, 120 GB hard drive, free online gaming service and more affordable pricing point, but complained about the lack of backward compatibility for PlayStation 2 games.{{cite web |title=Sony PlayStation 3 Slim – 120 GB Review |url=http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-slim/4505-10109_7-33765068.html |date=August 19, 2009 |website=CNET |access-date=September 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090905020249/http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-slim/4505-10109_7-33765068.html |archive-date=September 5, 2009 |url-status=live }} TechRadar gave PS3 Slim four and a half stars out of five praising its new smaller size and summed up its review stating "Over all, the PS3 Slim is a phenomenal piece of kit. It's amazing that something so small can do so much". However, they criticized the exterior design and the build quality in relation to the original model.{{cite news |title=Sony PlayStation 3 Slim 120 GB review |url=http://www.techradar.com/reviews/gaming/games-consoles/sony-playstation-3-slim-630534/review?artc_pg=5 |date=September 1, 2009 |work=TechRadar |access-date=September 3, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090905205923/http://www.techradar.com/reviews/gaming/games-consoles/sony-playstation-3-slim-630534/review?artc_pg=5 |archive-date=September 5, 2009 |url-status=live }}

Eurogamer called it "a product where the cost-cutting has—by and large—been tastefully done" and said "It's nothing short of a massive win for Sony."{{cite web |last=Leadbetter |first=Richard |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-ps3slim-hardware-test-article |title=Hardware Test: PS3 Slim Article • Page 1 • Articles • |publisher=Eurogamer.net |date=September 2, 2009 |access-date=January 29, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140202094700/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-ps3slim-hardware-test-article |archive-date=February 2, 2014 |url-status=live }}

The Super Slim model of PS3 has received positive reviews. Gaming website Spong praised the new Super Slim's quietness, stating "The most noticeable noise comes when the drive seeks a new area of the disc, such as when starting to load a game, and this occurs infrequently." They added that the fans are quieter than those of Slim, and went on to praise the new smaller, lighter size.

Criticism was placed on the new disc loader, stating: "The cover can be moved by hand if you wish, there's also an eject button to do the work for you, but there is no software eject from the triangle button menus in the Xross Media Bar (XMB) interface. In addition, you have to close the cover by hand, which can be a bit fiddly if it's upright, and the PS3 won't start reading a disc unless you do [close the cover]." They also said there is no real drop in retail price.{{cite web|last=Dodds|first=Gavin|title=PlayStation Super Slim 500 GB – Review|url=http://spong.com/feature/10110802/Review-PlayStation-3-Super-Slim-500GB/2|publisher=Spong|access-date=October 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131114081311/http://spong.com/feature/10110802/Review-PlayStation-3-Super-Slim-500GB/2|archive-date=November 14, 2013|url-status=live}}

Tech media website CNET gave new Super Slim 4 out of 5 stars ("Excellent"), saying "The Super Slim PlayStation 3 shrinks a powerful gaming machine into an even tinier package while maintaining the same features as its predecessors: a great gaming library and a strong array of streaming services [...]", whilst also criticising the "cheap" design and disc-loader, stating: "Sometimes [the cover] doesn't catch and you feel like you're using one of those old credit card imprinter machines. In short, it feels cheap. You don't realize how convenient autoloading disc trays are until they're gone. Whether it was to cut costs or save space, this move is ultimately a step back." The criticism also was due to price, stating the cheapest Super Slim model was still more expensive than the cheapest Slim model, and that the smaller size and bigger hard drive should not be considered an upgrade when the hard drive on a Slim model is easily removed and replaced. They did praise that the hard drive of the Super Slim model is "the easiest yet. Simply sliding off the side panel reveals the drive bay, which can quickly be unscrewed." They also stated that whilst the Super Slim model is not in any way an upgrade, it could be an indicator as to what's to come. "It may not be revolutionary, but the Super Slim PS3 is the same impressive machine in a much smaller package. There doesn't seem to be any reason for existing PS3 owners to upgrade, but for the prospective PS3 buyer, the Super Slim is probably the way to go if you can deal with not having a slot-loading disc drive."{{cite web|last=Bakalar|first=Jeff|title=Sony PlayStation Super Slim Uncharted 3 Limited Edition Bundle Review|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-super/4505-10109_7-35454667.html|website=CNET|access-date=October 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121008050538/http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-playstation-3-super/4505-10109_7-35454667.html|archive-date=October 8, 2012|url-status=live}}

Pocket-Lint gave Super Slim a very positive review saying "It's much more affordable, brilliant gaming, second-to-none video and media player." They think it is "A blinding good console and one that will serve you for years to come with second-hand games and even new releases. Without doubt, if you don't have a PS3, this is the time to buy." They gave Super Slim 4-and-a-half stars out of 5.

Technology magazine T3 gave the Super Slim model a positive review, stating the console is almost "nostalgic" in the design similarities to the original "fat" model, "While we don't know whether it will play PS3 games or Blu-ray discs any differently yet, the look and feel of the new PS3 Slim is an obvious homage to the original PS3, minus the considerable excess weight. Immediately we would be concerned about the durability of the top loading tray that feels like it could be yanked straight out off the console, but ultimately it all feels like Sony's nostalgic way of signing off the current-generation console in anticipation for the PS4."{{cite web|last=Sawh|first=Michael|title=Sony PS3 Super Slim review: Hands-on|url=http://www.t3.com/reviews/sony-ps3-super-slim-review|work=T3|access-date=October 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121014063934/http://www.t3.com/reviews/sony-ps3-super-slim-review|archive-date=October 14, 2012|url-status=live}}

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons}}

• [http://asia.playstation.com/hk/en/ps3/ Asia]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090307110655/http://asia.playstation.com/hk/en/ps3 |date=March 7, 2009 }}.
• [http://au.playstation.com/ps3/ Australia]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224192921/http://au.playstation.com/ps3/ |date=February 24, 2011 }}.
• [http://ca.playstation.com/ps3/ Canada]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513231814/http://ca.playstation.com/ps3/ |date=May 13, 2013 }}.
• [http://nz.playstation.com/ps3/ New Zealand]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025123452/http://nz.playstation.com/ps3/ |date=October 25, 2014 }}.
• [http://uk.playstation.com/ps3/ United Kingdom]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100125021327/http://uk.playstation.com/ps3/ |date=January 25, 2010 }}.
• [http://us.playstation.com/ps3/ United States]. {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100218202026/http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3 |date=February 18, 2010 }}.

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20080710053730/http://www.scee.presscentre.com/imagelibrary/default.asp?SubjectID=1530 Hardware press images]
• [http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/index.html User's guide]

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