PlayStation Jailbreak
In August 2010, PlayStation Jailbreak, a USB device that allows execution of unsigned code (such as backup games and homebrew) on the PlayStation 3, was released.[241] The device included a piece of software called Backup Manager, which allows users to copy original games from the Blu-ray Disc to either the internal hard disk drive (HDD) or an external HDD (FAT32 formatted).
The original device was soon reverse engineered and many clones, such as PS3 Key and PS3 Break, have since been released.[242] An open source implementation known as PS Groove was also released, which allows the same functionality to be achieved using various external devices, such as calculators and portable media players, via a USB connection.[243] An open source clone of Backup Manager, known as Open Manager, which mimics and expands upon the original's features has also been released.[244
Yellow light of death
Yellow light that indicates a non-specific hardware failure which renders the system unusable. According to the report the failure was likely to occur after 18–24 months, while the standard Sony warranty is one year in duration, after which PlayStation 3 owners can pay Sony a set fee for a refurbished console.
Sony claimed that, according to its statistics of returned consoles approximately only 0.5% of consoles were reported as showing the YLOD.
In response to the program Sony issued a document criticizing the program's accuracy and conclusions; specifically that the faults were evidence of a manufacturing defect. The document also complained that the report had been inappropriate in tone, and might do damage to Sony's brand.
Video services
- Video editor and uploader
A new application was released as part of system software version 3.40 which allows users to edit videos on the PlayStation 3 and upload them to the Internet. The software features basic video editing tools including the ability to cut videos and add music and captions. Videos can then be rendered and uploaded to video sharing websites such as Facebook and YouTube.[180]
- Video on demand
In addition to the video service provided by the Sony Entertainment Network the PlayStation 3 console has access to a variety of third party video services, dependant on region:
Since June 2009 VidZone has offered a free music video streaming service in Europe,[183] Australia and New Zealand.[184] In October 2009, Sony Computer Entertainment and Netflix announced that Netflix would also be available on the PlayStation 3 for in the United States; initially had to use a free Blu-ray disc to access the streaming video. A paid Netflix subscription was required for the service.[185] The service became available in November 2009.[186] In October 2010 the requirement to use a disc to gain access was removed.[187]
In November 2010 access to the video and social networking site MUBI was enabled for European, New Zealand, and Australian users; the service integrates elements of social networking with rental or subscription video streaming, allowing users to watch and discuss films with other users.[188][189] Also in November 2010 the video rental service VUDU, and subscription service Hulu Plus launched on the PlayStation 3 in the United States.[190][191]