Sony launches PlayStation Vue cloud TV service

Sony has launched its new cloud-based TV service, PlayStation Vue, in the US cities of New York, Chicago and Philadelphia, in a move designed to “revolutionise” television viewing.

Sony Network Entertainment International and Sony Computer Entertainment yesterday announced the rollout of the new pay-monthly service, which lets users access web-delivered live and on-demand TV from PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 3 games consoles.

At launch Playstation Vue will offer 85 channels, including networks from CBS, Discovery Communications, Fox, NBCUnversal, Scripps Networks Interactive, Turner, Viacom and AMC Networks. Sony said that further channels will be added “at a later date.”

Sony is offering three levels of subscription with different channel options – an ‘access’ package that costs US$49.99 per month, a ‘core’ package for US$59.99 per-month and an ‘elite’ package for US$69.99.

“The TV experience needs a revolution and PlayStation Vue changes the rules by embracing how today’s viewers want to discover and enjoy content,” said Andrew House, president and global CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment and group executive in charge of Sony’s Network Entertainment business.

“PlayStation Vue modernises the TV viewing experience, taking the best of live TV and on-demand content and bringing it to the PlayStation ecosystem in a way that gives control back to viewers and enables them to spend more time watching their favourite programs and less time channel surfing using outdated menus.”

Sony first unveiled PlayStation Vue last year. Features of the service include cloud DVR with up to 28-day unlimited storage and personalisation, trending and discovery options.