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BBC iPlayer on PlayStation 'reflects convergence trend'
Friday 21st August 2009, by Daniel King
PlayStation users with a good broadband connection will soon be able to enjoy the benefits of the BBC iPlayer service on their screens directly through their console.
The option goes live on September 1st and one expert has suggested the move is reflective of a growing trend for electronics companies and web technology providers to work alongside each other.
Andrew Laughlin, gaming and technology reporter for Digital Spy, said the level of digital convergence in the market could be seen in both Sony and Microsoft's attempts to link video content with their respective PlayStation and Xbox systems.
He added the introduction of the BBC iPlayer to the former console was part of a wider plan to create a complete "home entertainment hub" that incorporates all types of content, not just games.
Mr Laughlin continued that a recent deal between Microsoft and Sky for live and on-demand television services also meant Xbox users were being given a selection of extra attractive features.
"The significance of this is a bleeding of the edges around what a games console represents to its users, as the device increasingly becomes a place to access a wide variety of media," he said.
However, he concluded by suggesting that although consoles were able to link to the internet to provide access to such products, the time where such a gadget is used to control "all living room entertainment" was "a way off".
Broadband internet also allows gamers to enjoy multiplayer options with other people from around the world via the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live facilities.
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