Japan - PlayStation 2 To Form Center Of New E-Content System.

In unveiling its new PlayStation 2 console today, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) took the wraps off more than just a computer game player. The console is also expected to form the center of a new Internet-based electronic content distribution system that parent Sony Corp. is planning. The new system, which is expected to debut in Japan in 2001, will see PlayStation 2 users gaining the ability to download and access all sorts of multimedia content through high speed broadband networks. The PlayStation 2 has the ability to support connection to the Internet, for both Web browsing and network gaming, through a regular telephone line but Sony eyeing the potential future broadband networks have to deliver much greater amounts of data and information. An Ethernet adapter will be supplied in PC-Card format in 2001 to support the new function and allow the PlayStation 2 to connect with such networks. At present the work is focusing on digital cable television networks but ADSL-based networks and Sony_s own wireless data network are scheduled to be operational then so the system could offer a connectivity to a variety of networks. Once online, users will be able to access a broadband portal through which they will be able to download new software titles, music and even video and play it all through the PlayStation 2 console. SCEI is currently developing hard disk-based storage units that will connect with the console and provide storage for the content downloaded. In addition, the company is looking to develop an electronic transaction system with authentication and encryption technology that will enable the secure distribution of electronic content and give content owners the ability to retain control over their intellectual property.