Sony Launching Cloud-Based Playstation Streaming Service
By Russ Fischer/Nov. 13, 2014 1:00 pm EST
Sony’s press release has details on Vue, for which Sony has made deals with networks such as Viacom companies CBS, MTV, and Comedy Central, and also with Fox, NBC, and their subsidies. There’s no deal yet with ABC and Disney, which cuts out a lot of potential content (notably from ESPN). That means Vue won’t be a one-tool-fits-all service, at least not at the outset. But users will be able to stream live TV, access On Demand content, and review the last three days of broadcast content.
You’ll need a PlayStation Plus account to get into the NYC beta which launches at the end of the month, but by first quarter 2015 Vue should be available across the PlayStation Network. There’s also word of an iOS app in development.
From the press release:
Removing Barriers between Viewers and Content
PlayStation™Vue leverages the power of the cloud to combine the live, on-demand, and catch-up TV content viewers love with a powerful user interface that delivers unprecedented personalization and simplicity.
The Best Content on TV
During the invite-only beta, PlayStation™Vue will initially offer around 75 channels per market from the following major programmers, including local broadcast stations, so that viewers can enjoy their favorite movies, TV shows, and sports programs.
The following is a list of our current network partners, with additional partners to be announced in the future:
Transparent Pricing with No Commitments
Pricing and packaging details will be revealed at commercial launch but PlayStation™Vue is changing the rules for how people pay for subscription TV.
Availability
PlayStation™Vue will begin an invite only beta preview during November for select PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®3 owners, with a phased rollout starting in New York followed later by Chicago, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. The service will also become available on iPad® shortly thereafter, and later on more Sony and non-Sony devices.
PlayStation™Vue will launch commercially during the first quarter of 2015.
