What To Expect From Premium PSN Services

At a recent Sony press event the future plans of both the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Network were displayed. Sony announced plans for all PlayStation 3s to be fully 3D enabled via firmware update before 2011. They also plan to develop a premium service for the PlayStation Network to generate more revenue for the console. This premium service looks to consist of (non-gaming) applications and enhancements to the current PSN.

The future of the PlayStation Network will be bright without a doubt. I’m not surprised about the plans to bring premium services to the PSN, considering the revenue and services Microsoft generates through Xbox live. The price tag will obligate Sony to constantly update the PSN, and deliver on content such as premium avatars that we have yet to receive. Non-gaming applications for the PlayStation Network were hinted at in a released press sheet. These “apps” may bring new possibilities such as cross game chat, and parties that PSN users desire. PlayStation Home could be getting something out of all this as well; I would rejoice to see the integration of non-gaming apps into the social gaming community. Previously promised music & video streaming may become possible next year in Home, with the implementation apps. Though PS Home isn’t bad, I don’t find myself enjoying it as much as I thought I would. It was also hinted a while back that Sony may want to release a rental of downloadable PSN games. Considering the possibilities I wouldn’t be shocked to see the PSN premium service costing more than a yearly XBL subscription.