Netflix Boosts PS3 in Console War with Streaming, Disc-less Content

Netflix has just announced that you can now stream their content onto the PlayStation 3 and Wii… disc-less!  That’s right, you can throw out those ancient red discs supplied by the rental provider.  The new app allows PS3 and Wii owners the flexibility to watch TV Shows and Movies without getting up from your couch after playing a game.  We’ll explain how to get the application for both the PS3 and Wii below and also why the PS3 is the elite console for Netflix.

Of course, you’ll have to be a Netflix subscriber to begin watching your favorite shows. But on the Wii and PS3, that’s all you’ll need. Since Netflix does not require a premium online service compared to the Xbox’s LIVE Gold service plan, it comes at a cheaper price. Just $8.99 and you can start watching unlimited streaming movies and 1 DVD or 1 Blu-ray ($2 extra/month) out at a time on your PS3 or Wii.

To watch instantly via your PS3 without the disc:

1) Go to the PlayStation® Network section of the main menu.
2) Simply install Netflix from the “What’s New” area.

To watch instantly via Wii without the disc:

Simply download the Netflix channel from the Wii Shop Channel on your Wii™ console and follow the on-screen instructions.

For those that found the Netflix app under your “Video” column, the installation begin as soon as you pressed the “X” button.  Took me less than 1 minute to install.  When I logged in, which took around 2 minutes, their browser was similar to the disc version.  The benefit to search for TV Shows and Movies makes it a whole lot easier to narrow down your criteria.  But the biggest news is streaming 1080p! The PS3 also supports Dolby 5.1 and Subtitles for those Karate Movies or international flicks.

My experience to date has been a pleasurable one.  While I question the availability of some movies I appreciate Netflix’s effort to update their quantity.  I also would like Netflix to make a stronger effort to open up their streaming flicks and keep them indefinitely.  I found some movies had an “expiration date” which gave me a rushed feeling to watch it.

Final Thought: The PS3 is the elite console for the Netflix service.  Yes, the Wii and Xbox 360 offer streaming movies and the 360 even will offer search functions with their next Fall update.  But the PS3 offers all that plus 1080p streaming and Dolby 5.1 sound with optional subtitles.  Oh yeah, and did I mention you can also rent out Blu-ray movies as well.  +1 point for the PS3!