Netflix Inc. will make its online video rental service available through Sony Corp.’s PlayStation 3 console, the second game device to tie in with the retailer.
The service, available with subscription packages starting at $8.99 a month, will start next month, Los Gatos, Calif.,-based Netflix said yesterday.
The pact ends Netflix’s exclusive deal with Microsoft Corp.’s Xbox Live. Netflix chief executive Reed Hastings, a member of Microsoft’s board, has made streaming a priority for growth as more people look online for films and TV shows. Netflix, which delivers DVDs by mail, has over 11 million subscribers.
One difference from the Xbox service is that to stream movies, Netflix members will need to insert a special disc in to the PS3. The disc will be delivered free, Netflix said.
