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Trying to capitalize on the growth of online social networks, Sony is unveiling a an immersive 3D online environment for its PlayStation 3 users.
Known as Home, the 3D environment enables users to interact with each other, go shopping and form relationships in a virtual world. The product was unveiled by Phil Harrison, Sony Computer Entertainment's president of worldwide studios, at a press briefing the Game Developers Conference held in San Francisco Wednesday.
Sony’s virtual space shows similarities in its look and feel to the virtual environment Second Life; however, Sony wants Home be a family space and doesn’t not want any controversial elements roaming unmonitored in the public spaces. However, private spaces will not be monitored.
Under development for two and a half years, Home product could possibly give Sony a means to jump-start sales of PS3, which have lagged behind company expectations. Delayed several times last year, PS3 is in the fourth place behind Nintendo's Wii, Sony’s own PlayStation 2 and Microsoft's (News - Alert) Xbox 360. PS3 is plagued by high cost ($599) and shortages.
The Home will be launched in its Beta version this April and will launch publicly this fall. It is packed with some innovative features such as the facility to watch high definition videos through the PS3 network. The participants can meet other members in the main public area known as the "Central Lobby.” Communication will be enabled through text, audio or video chatting. They can also go into public theatres to watch the latest movies or user created videos.
Customers can customize their Avatars infinitely and they will be given a small private space, which they can alter according to their individual taste.
Raju Shanbhag is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To see more of his articles, please visit his columnist page Roaming | X | | Roaming is both a cellular and one for WiFi-Wireless Fidelity. Here is the explanation for cellular. Each wireless and wireline exchange carrier may modify the process and this should be considered a...more |
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