PS3 Netflix to be disc-free by fall - Report

Currently, PlayStation 3 subscribers who want to watch streaming content from Netflix on their systems need a special DVD to do so. However, the video rental giant's CEO today promised that come October, that disc will no longer be necessary.

According to MediaMemo, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings has promised that the company will make good on its promise to make its streaming content--an assortment of television shows and feature films--available without the need for a disc.

“Before our next call in October, we expect to be launching a major new version of our Sony PS3 user interface which doesn’t require a disc and is dynamically updated continuously with the latest Netflix UI improvements,” Hastings said.

The executive did not mention if the Nintendo Wii--which also requires a disc to play streaming content---will receive similar treatment. Currently, Microsoft's Xbox 360 is the only home console available that allows subscribers to stream Netflix content without inserting a disc.

Additionally, according to the report, 61 percent of Netflix's 15 million subscribers are now streaming video over the Web, which is up from 37 percent a year ago. The company is spending more to bring content to subscribers as well and recently added shows like Futurama and 24 to the list of available on-demand programs. Looking ahead, Netflix will add all seasons of the dysfunctional family cartoon Family Guy in the coming weeks.