Big Picture Big Sound

At a press event in Europe this week, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) announced that the Sony PlayStation 3 (PS3) will get a firmware upgrade this September to enable Blu-ray 3D playback.  At some time later, upgrades will also be available to enable the display of 3D photos and 3D content from YouTube.

A firmware upgrade to deliver 3D game support to the PS3 was made available last month to all users who connect their consoles to the internet.  The first round of 3D games, including Wipeout, Super Stardust, PAIN and a demo version of Motorstorm in 3D are available now and will be bundled free with Sony 3D-ready TVs.

According to an earlier conversation and Q&A session that our own Chris Chiarella had with Sony Computer Entertainment America on the subject of PS3 3D Upgrades, these additional 3D updates will be available for all PS3s -- including the first generation PS3 consoles -- not just the more recent "PS3 Slim" incarnation.

In order to enable Blu-ray 3D playback, the PS3 will need support for the new MVC (MultiView Coding) codec which was developed specifically for Blu-ray 3D.  This codec efficiently stores nearly twice the visual information required for 2D movies on a standard capacity Blu-ray Disc that is compatible with existing players.  PS3 owners with their consoles connected to the Internet will see a message in their PS3 XMB menu once the upgrade is available for download.

Related Articles:

• How Will My Sony PS3 Support 3D TV, 3D Gaming and Blu-ray 3D?
• Do I really Need HDMI 1.4 to do Blu-ray 3D?

Where to Buy:

• Sony PS3 on Amazon.com