Netflix goes disc-free on PS3 next week

In late July, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings announced to PlayStation 3 owners that come fall they would be able to defenestrate their streaming discs. Now, the executive has made good on that promise.

Starting Monday, October 18, PlayStation 3 owners will be able to download a free Netflix app and stream television shows and feature films without inserting the Netflix disc currently required to view content through the system.

In addition, the new Netflix app will arrive with a swath of new features and accessibility upgrades. The app will introduce a new user interface that promises a "much richer and faster browsing experience," as well as "dramatic improvements" over the current playback speed. Additionally, the new app will include a search feature, where users can seek out new programs.

Further, the new Netflix app will allow users to watch certain videos in 1080p resolution, listen to selections in 5.1 channel surround sound, and toggle on subtitles on select titles. According to Netflix, when the native app launches next week, the PS3 will be the "first consumer electronics device" to feature 5.1 channel surround sound capability on movies streamed by Netflix.

The PS3 will become the second console to host a dedicated Netflix app, following the Xbox 360. The arrival of the app will make the Nintendo Wii the only major console to require a disc for streaming playback.

Netflix for the PS3 was first announced in October 2009, breaking a year of exclusivity with the Xbox 360. It was implemented in November 2009 for the system.