On the E3 open day this year, Sony announced the up and coming release of the nearly named ‘Smart’ media streaming device Sony Playstation TV. Shawn Layden took full advantage of the E3 conference footfall and media coverage to unveil the new hardware to the world.
The unit was originally launched last year in Japan as the Sony PS Vita TV.
The “Playstation TV” is expected to retail at around $99, although no sign of localised pricing has yet been announced. Sony are working hard to have the units on retailers shelves in both the US and Canada for autumn this year, with a wider launch expected shortly afterwards.
You can watch Shawn from Sony unveil Playstation TV here:
Despite Sony being a flagship brand in the home user entertainment market, this unit is going to have to bring something pretty special to the table considering it’s taking on manufactures such as:
Apple – Now in it’s “Third Generation”, Apple have sold over 20 million units since the initial release of the very first Apple TV on the market.
Roku – Roku have a vast array of media streaming options, and statistics suggest they have sold 8 million units to date.
Google – Fairly new to the media streaming world, the Chromecast is already flying off the shelves.
Amazon – Another new contender in the already crowded steaming media market.
The device will follow the suit of earlier market share winners, and allow for content from a variety of devices to be wirelessly steamed to owners TV’s with minimal setup. Where the Playstation TV differs, is it will also allow to games from your PS4 on a second TV, Also you’ll be able to play games from the PS Vita platform – as long as you a Sony controller.
It’s expected to also integrate tightly with the up and coming Sony Now service, which will give hardcore gamers access to old Sony titles of days gone by.
The introduction of such a flurry of ‘budget’ smart boxes, allow owners of older TV’s to gain ‘smart’ functionality with little outlay. Most of the above boxes can be purchased for approximately $99/£99.
Although the market seems fairly saturated with devices, Sony’s appeal to the gaming market will probably put it in good stead. I feel confident in saying those who have previously owned Sony tech will sway more towards their TV unit compared to the others on the market.