The next system software update for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) system will be released on April 1, 2010 (JST), and will disable the “Install Other OS” feature that was available on the PS3 systems prior to the current slimmer models, launched in September 2009. This feature enabled users to install an operating system, but due to security concerns, Sony Computer Entertainment will remove the functionality through the 3.21 system software update.
In addition, disabling the “Other OS” feature will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure system.
Consumers and organizations that currently use the “Other OS” feature can choose not to upgrade their PS3 systems, although the following features will no longer be available;
- Ability to sign in to PlayStation Network and use network features that require signing in to PlayStation Network, such as online features of PS3 games and chat
- Playback of PS3 software titles or Blu-ray Disc videos that require PS3 system software version 3.21 or later
- Playback of copyright-protected videos that are stored on a media server (when DTCP-IP is enabled under Settings)
- Use of new features and improvements that are available on PS3 system software 3.21 or later
For those PS3 users who are currently using the “Other OS” feature but choose to install the system software update, to avoid data loss they first need to back-up any data stored within the hard drive partition used by the “Other OS,” as they will not be able to access that data following the update.
Additional information about PS3 firmware updates, including v3.21 (once it becomes available), can be found here:
http://us.playstation.com/support/systemupdates/ps3/index.htm
PS3 owners who have further questions should contact Consumer Services:
http://us.playstation.com/support/ask/
800-345-7669 (800-345-SONY)
Ridiculous. I’ve been playing games and running linux on ps3 for a long period of time. Now Sony wanna make my ps3 disabled wtf. Believe me this is the best April Fools joke 2010 because Sony treated us like fools! BTW these fools have also bought lots of ps3 games. Security concerns? Total BS.
I’m disappointed, really.
I actually bought my PS3 to be used as a cheap MythTV frontend. It was cheaper to buy a $300 PS3 than an HTPC. Although I love my PS3 as a media machine, I do occasionally purchase games for it. So basically telling me that I either have to give up on games or give up on cheap HTPC is just plain wrong. I will be joining the class action that will inevitably spring from this.
i dont think this is an April Fool’s joke, why would they give want us to call if so, right?
When I read the title, I was excited. But after reading this post…not so much. My model does have that feature, but I never use it, so it doesn’t bother me. But if this update improves the security, I’m all for it.
If this is an April Fool it IS an EPIC WIN because I am really mad! This would be a legendary joke if it is and they let it go on this long. I hope it is. :)
This better be a April Fools Joke or they will be some unhappy ppl with Sony
I am not happy about this as are others. I just hope Sony gets hit hard with complaints about removing features that we paid for and not even adding anything to this firmware. It is not even like you gave us something useful to keep us distracted from stealing features away from our consoles. Not cool.
So much for being able to do ‘Everything’. There’s a huge list on the share blog the PS3 can’t do. But yea, take something away. That makes sense.
i know many many peapole who has ps3’s. not a single one of them uses linux. go sony drop that [DELETED] feature !
Sad Sony, just sad. You could at least bundle any of the 8 million other requests people have to soften the jerky-ness of this update.
Definately complaining to the BBB, FTC, and anyone else that will listen.
lame.
Ha ha!!! I LOVE THIS!!!- PLENTY OF MORE “POURING” to come!!! Come on, guys!!! Good job!!!- KEEP IT UP!!! HURRAY!!!
Oh my god they’re taking linux away!!! whatever am i going to do with all this space on my new slimline…
Oh wait…
I’m hoping that they are gonna throw a few extra things into the update, it’s going to be a little disappointing to see 4 months waiting becoming the removal of the “Install other OS” option.
If its not an april fools, (which i seriously doubt it is) then i understand the reason they’re removing it, because people are actively trying to break the protective measures on the console with it, would you leave the key to your car on the doorstep? I think not. Sony’s not THAT stupid
I understand some people are gonna be upset over its removal but for most people who dont actually use it its not a huge loss, i’d bet that most of the complaints are coming from people who thought that in a few months they’d be playing online with cheap copies.
All i can say about it is way to go GeoHot, looks like you and your buddies work has not gone un-noticed and now for the people who use linux on PS3 properly you and your hacker friends have ruined it.
@Tr3_stone
Go ahead, I’ve heard their support of linux is phenomenal
Wow, all I can say. I paid $600 for my launch 60GB PS3 and I do use the Linux feature for email and web browsing (as well as playing games and Blu-Ray). I am not at all happy with this.
I know there is nothing I can do to change this, and I will have to give up the feature(“OPTIONAL” my rear)since I do play online.
But, what I can do and will do is this: I have always preferred the PS3 over the other next gen console. I own both, but only buy exclusives on the other console, any multi-platform game I always buy on the PS3, even if I have to wait out a timed exclusive. I won’t stop buying PS3 games, but once this patch goes live, and I feature that I paid for goes away, my way of showing my distaste is to vote with my dollars. So beware Sony, I will be buying all multi-platform games on the other console.
why are people moaning!? who cares? no one uses linux if u need it buy a PC!!!! you didnt buy a ps3 for linux so shut up.
To whoever you think you are above me….
Some people DID buy a PS3 because of this, because it was a way to have a Computer hooked up to your TV.
Don’t assume things just because you don’t use them.
If this is true, god damn you all and I will push to somehow retaliate.
If this is a joke, har har har, you guys are some evil jokers.
But yeah, if this is a joke (I really hope it is) I think this will probably go down in the books.
You idiots buying a 360 means nothing. 360 cant install another operating system. Also you already purchased a ps3, so sony already has the sales numbers from you. This was a unecessary feature anyway, I am sure it is making way for better psn features. IT IS A GAME CONSOLE!!!!!!!!!
so ppl would rather use a slow linux on a ps3 when its better to get a pc with linux anyway?
Sony – 1
Hackers – 0
so what would you seriously choose linux on ps3 or fork out500+ on a dedicated htpc?
my bet is the ps3, cause with the right codecs you can play ANY video file
I guess people who bought a PS3 for installing other OS on it will certainly be angry about this. Sony can expect a few lawsuits coming their way.
No “Other OS”?
WTF?
Sh*t SONY
Wow, this is BS! Way to screw your customers Sony… Looks like I won’t be buying any more playstations
To those saying it’s an April 1 joke. I really hope you are right. I guess it could be, there are some strange things about it to be sure. But why release an April 1 joke on March 29 (even though the release indeed is set for April 1)?! And leave 3 days for people to be angry before you can tell the truth? It would have been a fun joke if they had done it on April 1 and had revealed the truth later same day.
I just installed Yellow Dog 6.2 on my ps3.
Now they are taking it away.
This is a very bad joke.
Every ten comments or so some idiot says “its a game system”. OK so lets pull out the web browser, music player, video player, dvd and bluray playback, photo viewer, video codecs, etc. Its just a game system right…. Fools
Everyone has a PC or Mac anyway. Even if its true. 360 dont have an OS system u trolls. They dont even have a web browser, bluray, built in wi-fi, no bluetooth,cant install a 500gb plus harddrive, etc..
What the 360 do have is the RROD, Ejecting tray not ejecting, AA batteries in controllers, Pay to play online, Old dvd drive, no games, Scratches on discs, screaming little kiddies online, etc.. etc..
PS3 the best.
I wish this was an April fools joke because this is not cool at all. Those of us that have the larger ps3 and actually use OS like linux wont be too pleased to know a feature is being TAKEN AWAY! I know its not a joke because that would be unprofessional of you! I don’t see how its a security problem now and was not before. To me you just want people to buy slims. We bought our systems at launch for a reason and were happy with our purchases. Sony has screwed me over before but come on this is ridiculous. It sure does do everything including downgrading itself….I am very angry about this as linux was a great + to the Sony name. I’m sure a lot of people wont care because they don’t even know what linux is but us that use it are not too pleased! There was already so much we couldn’t access before through another OS now we cant even do it at all…..Very disappointing.
Very disappointing. I almost don’t want to install the update and keep my rare 60GIG model WITH Optional OtherOS and just buy an XBOX for online gaming. Thanks, this is a million times worse than when the servers died cause of the clock issue… I don’t see why you don’t just work with the linux community and resolve this issue without taking a feature away. I have been using linux for years and trust me the community is the best thing about it, among other things. Way to take the easy way out and just anger people. Smart people will always find a way around your security systems so just keep it up to date and changing. I guarantee you that the people you are having problems with just wont update and keep it like how it is, look at your PSP, people are still using CFW from years ago. They will just wait till the current update gets hacked and then update it. I truly feel sorry for the people that thought they would just buy a PS3 and they could use it as a PC for their writing and other projects and also a WAY BETTER web browser than the one you have on the XMB. The worst part is you don’t even apologize for the inconvenience or anything.
You make it sound like its better for us this way and its not. You know as well as i do there are way better ways to keep your security. This will be a temporary fix but a permanent setback. Most people that are hacking their ps3s already have an old FW so why would they update it now? Shame on you sony. The only way i would think this would be slightly OK is if you released all the features another OS offers within the XMB for FREE. It’s time to take the “C” out of SCEA. In my book its not a Computer if i cant even write a simple Text Document with the device. Come on, outside of games my telephone does more now!
Phil Harrison (a honorable guy…) once said [http://kotaku.com/235049/20-questions-with-phil-harrison-at-dice]
One of the most powerful things about the PS3 is the “Install Other OS” option.
The whole reason I bought a PS3 fat over the Slim was so I could use the install other OS feature. I also like to watch BluRays as well as buy things from the PSN.
Now you are telling me I have to make a choice between what of these I want more?
Really [DELETED] move Sony.
I am EXTREMELY disappointed in you Sony and it’s not the first god damned time either.
If you remove the Other OS support I will not stay quiet and will encourage others to speak up and flame you and the PS3 as hard as possible.
// Frigolit
Original message (because of length limits): http://www.frigolit.net/ps3-otheros.txt
More than likely, IF this turns out to be a “joke,” the plan was to proceed with removing the feature, but once Sony saw the backlash, they changed their mind and since they covered their ass with the “April 1st” thing, they’ll claim it was a joke all along.
Jokes are supposed to be funny, though. April Fool’s Day jokes are supposed to happen ON APRIL FOOL’S DAY. So this is lame, either way.
What about apps? What about SRT subtitles? You may be securing your own business but it will surely hurt all geek gamers who enjoyed using their PS3 as it was PAID for. And why run of it, you know geohot will do this anyway…
ABSOLUTELY 100% TOTAL SONY FAIL. For those like me who PURPOSELY spent more money to buy an older machine just to install otheros you just destroyed any image we ever had of you as a good company.
Do you really think this will stop people from hacking your system?
Security concerns?
Some news for you… first of all the ps3 has NOT been hacked yet. So why don’t you wait before removing a useful feature until it actually prevents something instead of just assuming that something like OtherOS will actually lead to a hack… because you don’t know that.
WOW. I can’t believe I even trusted sony, or bought your things… I have sony camcorders, headphones, games, walkman, cell phones, etc…… This is the THANKS you give loyal customers? F***ing up their sh****t >?!?!?!?!?! what a crock…. go rot sony…. seriously
Removing the ability to install another OS is simply unacceptable.
You look like a bunch of ignorants red neck, if you don’t know, using the ps3 with linux offers different way of research that can be done with even a quad core PC. But, i guess you are to busy believing that sony do this for a greater purpose like “defeating piracy”, i can tell this is not going to stop hackers… in fact this can be a better reason to hack the console.
I’m NOT gona update my firmware and i WANT to play online and have the lastest features. This is my right, i bought the console with this features and there is no reason to take them away.
wow, i didn’t even know this type of things existed on my ps3 (60gb), lol. hey, as long it doesn’t affect me playing games and getting online, then I really don’t care. And some are saying this is an April Fools joke? if it is, then Sony did a good job.
Anybody who thinks this is real really needs to think again. It’s an early April Fools joke and you know what else, Eric Lempel is the Director of PS3/PSP Firmware Operations, why would Patrick Seybold come up on the blog to say something about the next update when it’s Eric’s job to give out details? It’s just a big joke.
I also am of the belief that it is possible they used the April 1st date as a potential excuse to backout of those due to customer backlash, but this definitely is not a joke, they are planning to do this as of right now. Several PS3 developers have confirmed with SCEI that this is true, good ol Sony here didn’t even bother to tell those who are working making software for the machines…
sorry i wanted to say that can’t be done with even a quad core PC
Anyone actually called in about this?
Why in the heck are you guys at sony always adding or taking away stuff thats irrelevant? We have been demanding cross game chat for the past 4 years, yet you guys keep on wasting everyone’s time with the pathetic updates. 99% of ps3 users dont even use the OS feature. Why are you wasting your resources on things like this when there are larger issues at hand. WTF is wrong with you guys at the Sony Headquarters?
This is actual firmware that is faulty,
great job again Sony, it destroys the free
choice we had on the Playstation 3, the choice
to run a open source operating system, this
was unique for a entertainment system, by taking
away this features that we need and use, thankyou
for throwing away 500 euro’s Sony Computer
Terrortainment.
This firmware causes damage to the console and data
lost, we even don’t have a choice wheter to flash or
not to flash this firmware build, it is forced up on
us.
For users that would like to buy a new console, buy
XBOX 360 or for the younger ones the WII because the
Microsoft corp. and Nintendo do handle it’s custommers
better then Sony does, this incident builds up my bad
experiences with Sony even further.
The poeple of Sony are saying that you should not use
Linux and that you have no need for it.
I say that, that this is up to us wat we need and what
we are using, it’s our money that is spend on Sony
so better think again Sony.
To those saying its a joke, again multiple devs have confirmed, and some are even angry about this. Also if you think its fake because its not Eric posting this, click Patrick Seybolds name up there, and read his posts. He posts on firmware when there is a problem…
As for me, I think SONY can remove the service purchased by people. A lot of people purchased PS3 to use is as WS. What do you want? It’s Asia with its specific mentality. :) IBM forced the supporting of CELL into Linux kernel, Fixstars produced YDLinux for PS3 and what was the result? The result is very-very strange Sony’s solution and it more seems like as bad joke, but I trust this news.
@ SONY
1. Crappy Ass-pril Joke, right?
2. If you’re really serious about removing this feature, what is going to happen to the disk space (10 GB) currently reserved to my Linux partition? Is it going to sit there forever, useless and without being reassigned by the PS3 OS? Or are you going to find a way to make it available again to the system?
3. Just when you’re gaining positive criticism, you ALWAYS find the way to shoot yourself in the foot over again. You’re really a bunch of amateur clowns.
I submitted an FTC complaint….
I look forward to seeing more about this in the news, Patrick.