"The PlayStation 3 is a computer. We do not need the PC"

[Coded-Dude]

The folks over at Sony are so confident in the power and capabilities of the new PlayStation 3 that they think the console will render PCs unnecessary. This is just the latest in the console trash talk that has been going on for months. Just yesterday we reported that Microsoft was going to the mattresses over the PS3's standard Blu-ray drive.

Sony Computer Entertainment's Worldwide Studios president Phil Harrison feels that the PS3 is flexible enough to double as a gaming machine and a machine to handle all of your day-to-day PC-related chores. Sure, the PS3 has a powerful processing platform, storage capabilities, wired and wireless networking, USB ports, a media reader and a Linux based operating system -- but is that enough to displace a traditional PC? "We believe that the PS3 will be the place where our users play games, watch films, browse the Web, and use other [home] computer functions. The PlayStation 3 is a computer. We do not need the PC," said Harrison.

Sony also denied the notion that its decision to add motion-sensing technology to its PS3 controller was a knee-jerk reaction to Nintendo's Wii. Harrison remarked, "In a certain way, I understand why people would say [such things], but it is stupid, if you'll forgive me saying so."
SOURCE (http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=2634)

[LinpinWangyFoot]

now thats what you call throwing the gauntlet down!

[masteratt]

Sony just keep your mouth shut for a while! Hahaha!

This is just going to spark up more negative reactions! Bad move. Especially the bolded part. He basically listed what we already know and really fucked up by saying "other computer functions" giving the reaction that there is nothing else but the features he mentioned which we've known for over a month anyway.

Oh man...Sony you legends. Hahaha.

[Saibo]

im just reading the comments on that site..wow alot of Sony haters. As for me, the PS3 is a computer, since i'll be using it for "personal computing" such as progamming and other things.

[Coded-Dude]

When I hear Phil say stuff like that I first think of:
Buying an XBOX 360 and then buying a Media Center PC....
MS: We'll incoporate everything together flawlesly(just buy the products. <-plural)
Sony's retort: We/You don't need no stinking PC!

[LinpinWangyFoot]

Sony are preparing for battle... its not going to be pretty so i'd say those words set a perfect tone.

[xbdestroya]

Well, DailyTech is an offshoot of AnandTech - a PC enthusiasts site. So you can probably imagine people have a dim view on Sony claiming they can supplant the PC.

Myself, well, I think this is not the best PR for Sony at the moment - but then again it's just Internet chatter, and on top of that it stems from a translated German interview; so you know something's been screwed up in the translation!

Anyway whatever the case, I certainly hope Sony is able to deliver on some of these computer-like features.

[Viper]

Has Sony forgotten the arrogance of Nintendo back in the early/mid 90's? They are walking down a bad path lately. Confidence is one thing.....



Sorry, Ken, Phil and company but your PS3 will not replace my PC. For one thing, I don't have an HDTV so imagine trying to do computer funtions and programs at 640 x 480? Just stop, please.

[CrumCon]

They better show some images or videos of their games from their World wide studios thne trash talking like this..

[LinpinWangyFoot]

the idea that Sony is arrogant stems from the fact that doubters are quick to disparage the PS3. if we saw PS3 for what it is and aknowledge its technical achievements then that so called arrogance turns to confidence.

[masteratt]

As much as I agree with that ^ in many occasions if indeed Sony DID phrase it like the thread title suggests then this is just being arrogant and for no good reason.

EDIT: Actually scratch that- I'll wait for announcements and final Linux news before doubting Sony. They have been called crazy/arrogant many times and although this time it seems legit to call them those names, they might have a trick up their sleeve.

[Saibo]

Sorry, Ken, Phil and company but your PS3 will not replace my PC. For one thing, I don't have an HDTV so imagine trying to do computer funtions and programs at 640 x 480? Just stop, please.

thats just silly, because you can hook it up to your computer monitor via a adapter to get high resolution. You dont seriously think im going to use the PS3 as my computer hooked up to a normal TV? ;)

there should be adapters for VGA, DVI, HDMI ports.

Though i kinda wish Phil show off some PS3 Linux OS screen shot while making that statement, it would make for a better case.

[Coded-Dude]

@ LinpinWangyFoot - well put;

For the most part Sony's "chiefs" have been playing the defensive lately, warding off naysayers like a bug-zapper on a hot summer night. I kind of like the change of pace. I don't think soudning completely defensive is safe, you have to be somewhat agressive to stay visible to the mainstream. Of course like I always say: time will tell...

[Viper]

the idea that Sony is arrogant stems from the fact that doubters are quick to disparage the PS3. if we saw PS3 for what it is and aknowledge its technical achievements then that so called arrogance turns to confidence.
So you know for certain it will be capable of replacing my PC? It's going to network with my laptop? What about my Google Earth project, can I finish that on PS3? Etc, etc, etc?

[Coded-Dude]

Anything you can do on PC based linux will be equally replicatable on the PS3 based linux.
HOWEVER, If your needs are for Windows specifcially, than you may have to wait a small time for something like wine , or a virtual solution(like vmplayer), but fesibly - PS3 can replace the desktop. The only thing I am soley dependant upon Windows for, is games(like battlefield).

[Xerxes]

I really see nothing wrong of what he said. I have a PC but the my PC it light-years away from what my PS3 will do.

[LinpinWangyFoot]

So you know for certain it will be capable of replacing my PC? It's going to network with my laptop? What about my Google Earth project, can I finish that on PS3? Etc, etc, etc?

i know what your saying Viper but how can you argue that it won't replace the PC when the word is from the horses mouth. i could spend hours discussing the legitimacy of this claim but at the end of the day i'm listening to Sony (the guys who created the PS3) surely they would know.

[xbdestroya]

Let's put this thing in a different light; I don't think it's Phil Harrison being arrogant, I think it was him addressing a valid question concerning Microsoft's 'Live Everywhere' strategy in the most aggressive terms he felt appropriate.

Now, that doesn't make what he's saying true though.

We simply have to wait to see what kind of functionality PS3 brings to the table. I certainly hope for a full-featured Linux OS. But honestly I'm going to have to chalk this up at the moment to a shot across MS' bow more than an actual indication of PC replacement. It would have to be quite the effort on Sony's part in that respect for me to move to PS from my PC for computing functions.

i know what your saying Viper but how can you argue that it won't replace the PC when the word is from the horses mouth. i could spend hours discussing the legitimacy of this claim but at the end of the day i'm listening to Sony (the guys who created the PS3) surely they would know.

Linpin I know you're on a Sony fan site, but I mean there are limits to what can reasonably be expected. Just because it comes from the horse's mouth, doesn't make it true. Otherwise, we'd be living in a crazy PS2 broadband paradise already, IMing each other and watching video feeds through our PS2s.

[Xerxes]

These other applications might help you do things like a PC, so if it is Linux based there is a possibility that you can finish your Google Earth project and can connect to the PS3 like the PSP with your laptop. We dont know yet; we just have to wait and see.

[Viper]

I guess what I'm getting at is you don't just make a claim like that with nothing to back it up, I don't care who you are.

[LinpinWangyFoot]

Linpin I know you're on a Sony fan site, but I mean there are limits to what can reasonably be expected. Just because it comes from the horse's mouth, doesn't make it true. Otherwise, we'd be living in a crazy PS2 broadband paradise already, IMing each other and watching video feeds through our PS2s.

theres just as much legitimacy in believing Sony as there is in listening to doubters. (i don't include you in that by the way) i believe something without doubt, but bare in mind that things can be taken out of context. like you said this is a translation. to me though its the clearest indication that Linux on the PS3 will be fully realised.

[Infernal]

i know what your saying Viper but how can you argue that it won't replace the PC when the word is from the horses mouth. i could spend hours discussing the legitimacy of this claim but at the end of the day i'm listening to Sony (the guys who created the PS3) surely they would know.
Linpin you do realize though that it isnt Sony who decides if it replaces PC's. Its the consumers and Viper is one of the consumers that has that decision. His claim is just as legitiment as theirs. BTW its not like Sony has stopped making PC's, so obviously they dont think people are going to throw down their PC's and get PS3's instead either.

[LinpinWangyFoot]

Linpin you do realize though that it isnt Sony who decides if it replaces PC's. Its the consumers and Viper is one of the consumers that has that decision. His claim is just as legitiment as theirs. BTW its not like Sony has stopped making PC's, so obviously they dont think people are going to throw down their PC's and get PS3's instead either.

good point :) i'll bare that in mind when i'm talking to you through my PS3. PCs won't die out completely but PS3 will put a huge dent in the market.

[LaLiLuLeLo]

like I said in another thread: until ps3 can run adobe photoshop [and my wacom tablet drivers], my pc isn't going anywhere. Seeing the ps3 as an integrated entertainment set is much easier to swallow than the ouster of the PC. It's integrating a lot of the entertainment aspects of multimedia, but as far as practical applications I don't see it. Not until it comes with a keyboard/mouse package and some executables built in. As long as the primary enterface is a game controller, it's a game/entertainment system.

[Coded-Dude]

BTW its not like Sony has stopped making PC's, so obviously they dont think people are going to throw down their PC's and get PS3's instead either.

Depending on PS3 success, it may very well be a stategy/plan that does exist(if only in theory)
But he never said Laptops, he is primarily speakign of the home PC and its multi-media functions(plus other functions)

[nemesis121]

When I can install a 2 80GIG hdd with Windows install on one HDD and use the other has a storing HDD, play PC games and Mod them, while being able to play PS3 games then i will accept PS3 as PC, other wise Sony needs to shut there mouth and just release the damn RSX specs.

[Gaul]

I think he may be right in some aspects, but you have to remember that the PC is evolving also. Its not as if one is moving up and the other remains the same. The PC has an advantage that the PS3 doesn't have (some might see it as a disadvantage also, but you can't deny the plusses). The PC can upgrade any time it wants. 3 years from now, we will still be using the same PS3, Whereas the PC will be able to advance at any time within those same years. If the PS3 can match todays PC's, then they will just end up coming up with new ideas for the PC's.

[Coded-Dude]

When I can install a 2 80GIG hdd with Windows install on one HDD and use the other has a storing HDD, play PC games and Mod them, while being able to play PS3 games then i will accept PS3 as PC, other wise Sony needs to shut there mouth and just release the damn RSX specs.
You won't be waiting on Sony, you will be waiting on MS to compile their damn OS for CELL architecture. Cell can already run multiple OSes at once.

like I said in another thread: until ps3 can run adobe photoshop [and my wacom tablet drivers], my pc isn't going anywhere. Seeing the ps3 as an integrated entertainment set is much easier to swallow than the ouster of the PC. It's integrating a lot of the entertainment aspects of multimedia, but as far as practical applications I don't see it. Not until it comes with a keyboard/mouse package and some executables built in. As long as the primary enterface is a game controller, it's a game/entertainment system.

photoshop i srunning on linux....Disney uses it via wine!
There is also a linux Wacom project, but I am not sure how far along it is.
(google "linux wacom tablet")
Keyboard and Mouse are already declared as supported(wireless bluetooth at that!)
What OTHER everday prcatical applications do you think linux cannot handle.

Mail, Web, IM, Office, etc. - it(PC linux) most definatley competes with windows for the desktop space. The only thing I do agree upon is the built in executables part(in a sense). What GNU applications they are/will be able to get workgin on PS3 from the start is my TOP question. Surely homebrewers and corporations alike will begin to get apps in the CELL/Linux platform, but how long that will take is the concern...... :queer:

The PC can upgrade any time it wants. 3 years from now, we will still be using the same PS3, Whereas the PC will be able to advance at any time within those same yearsBut at what cost.
I just upgraded my PC after spending well over a grand five years ago, I jsut spent as much this time around, and it will consistantly cost me 5 to 6 hundered dollars everytime I want to upgrade something(like a CPU or GPU)

[xbdestroya]

You won't be waiting on Sony, you will be waiting on MS to compile their damn OS for CELL architecture. Cell can already run multiple OSes at once.

It can run multiple OSes, as long as they're all Fedora core Linux. ;)

Seriously though, I think as long as burning CDs, DVDs, and/or whatever else is important to the consumer in question (and it is for me), PS3 will fall short in that regard. Of course it could support external devices to accomplish this goal, but that's less than elegant.

[LiquidEagle]

Does this mean Sony's gonna stop making Vaio PCs?? :-p

[Handycrap101]

I think he may be right in some aspects, but you have to remember that the PC is evolving also. Its not as if one is moving up and the other remains the same. The PC has an advantage that the PS3 doesn't have (some might see it as a disadvantage also, but you can't deny the plusses). The PC can upgrade any time it wants. 3 years from now, we will still be using the same PS3, Whereas the PC will be able to advance at any time within those same years. If the PS3 can match todays PC's, then they will just end up coming up with new ideas for the PC's.

That's very true but at the same time you can take both of them right now as they are. If you consider what you get from both (from an entertainment aspect) I believe overall the PS3 offers more in a more advanced way. They have pics, music, and movies all in the same respect but PS3 has a Blu-ray player. That IMO, gives it the edge. Also, in terms of gaming can get the same quality for MUCH cheaper. I could go on and on about advantages and disadvantages between the too but that isn't what this thread is about.

Regarding the PS3 being a computer, I believe it's the closest thing to a computer as far as the consoles go. It offers many computer like functions that sets it apart from it's competitors. This will attract more possible customers who used to favor the PC over consoles due to the similarities of the two.

[Gaul]

But at what cost.
I just upgraded my PC after spending well over a grand five years ago, I jsut spent as much this time around, and it will consistantly cost me 5 to 6 hundered dollars everytime I want to upgrade something(like a CPU or GPU

That was why i said:
some might see it as a disadvantage also, but you can't deny the plusses

[Smokey]

i gotta say ill still be using a pc for pc stuff no matter what the my ps3 can do, but you never know in a big city :)

[Viper]

What is the hacker, virus, worm, trojan threat level here?

[DofD]

What's being missed here is the context in which Phil Harrison was referring to when he said "day-to-day PC-related chores" and to what audience type the comments were geared towards.

Now it's just my opinion, but I don't feel the Phil's comments aren't geared towards the power PC user or even the advanced PC user. But rather towards the user who surfs the web, does email, stores pictures, IM's, plays games, and other very basic tasks.

[Coded-Dude]

I believe it's the closest thing to a computer as far as the consoles go.
The PlayStation 3 is a computer.

What is the hacker, virus, worm, trojan threat level here?
What do you mean Viper?

Now it's just my opinion, but I don't feel the Phil's comments aren't geared towards the power PC user or even the advanced PC user. But rather towards the user who surfs the web, does email, stores pictures, IM's, plays games, and other very basic tasks.
and the programmer! (who is the advanced user)

[LiquidEagle]

Good point DofD.

Viper, isn't Linux the safest OS out there? Somebody gave me some lessons (I think it was Dude) on how much more secure Linux is than Windows not too long ago.

[Smokey]

What's being missed here is the context in which Phil Harrison was referring to when he said "day-to-day PC-related chores" and to what audience type the comments were geared towards.

Now it's just my opinion, but I don't feel the Phil's comments aren't geared towards the power PC user or even the advanced PC user. But rather towards the user who surfs the web, does email, stores pictures, IM's, plays games, and other very basic tasks.
like me i spose :unsure:

[Viper]

^Those little tiny Macs replaced the PC in that sense then.

[Smokey]

Good point DofD.

Viper, isn't Linux the safest OS out there? Somebody gave me some lessons (I think it was Dude) on how much more secure Linux is than Windows not too long ago.
but i bet if linux was the dominant os it mighten be so safe? :)

[Viper]

Exactly, Smokey. Writing viruses and the like for 5% of the market is rather pointless.

[LiquidEagle]

That's what I said at the time, but whoever gave me the lessons said Linux was flat-out more secure and if it were governed by market size then Apache's server system would be much more hacked than Windows' system. Something like that. Can somebody who knows what they're talking about jump in now please? :laugh:

[Coded-Dude]

Exactly, Smokey. Writing viruses and the like for 5% of the market is rather pointless.

What market? Unix/Linux is the dominant OS in the server market(hands down).
Infecting the windows desktop is definately not uncommon and very fun for the up and coming hacker, but true hackers enjoy bringing down servers(becasue they are generally more secure and challenging). Linux is most definatley more secure, while some of the applications are less secure, but they UPDATE way faster than any MS vulnerability(becasue it is open source).

Liquid Eagle, you are thinking about the comment someone made regararding the fact that LINUX/UNIX was written as a multi-user os(with security in mind), while Windows was invented as a single user OS. Some of the windows apps are more secure than the linux counterpart, btu liek I said updates for vulnerabilies come out way faster for Linux.

[Viper]

That's the thing, dude, most hackers are beginners that go after Windows simply because they are noobs. That and servers tend to actually have security measures in place, not just using Linux, where as millions of Windows operators leave their PC without a condom on.

[LiquidEagle]

Dude is also pointing out that the Open Source community is much more reliable for a quick fix than a single company like Microsoft will ever be. So, if the levee breaks, the fix will be very quick and you won't be getting help from just Sony, you'll be getting the help from people all over the globe :)

[Coded-Dude]

That's the thing, dude, most hackers are beginners that go after Windows simply because they are noobs. That and servers tend to actually have security measures in place, not just using Linux, where as millions of Windows operators leave their PC without a condom on.

Thatss is exactly true, but you still won't find the level of damaging hacks on linux that are so widespread on Windows. Technically, viruses don't exsist on Linux, only worms, and they usually exploit an app not the OS itself, and it usually doesn't cause very much physical harm(normally jsut a crash), unless the hack is to gain root privilages(which is VERY bad). Anywho, you can say that is the suers fault for not implementing security measures, but you could equally argue that it is the software makers fault for not making said platform secure enough. :thumbr:

[backbreaker]

Ok, lets put the statements in context based on a real and true translation and you will find that he was responding to a question about how MS will acheive a particular function and he's stating that we don't need a PC to do it.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Speaking of online, Microsoft has just announced "Live Anywhere", an integrated Windows-Xbox-Mobile environment. Is that something you're worried about because you don't have the same access to the PC market as Microsoft does?

Harrison: No, it doesn't concern me and I don't think it concerns the consumer either. Once you adopt a game system as your primary entertainment device, that's what you want. We think that Playstation 3 is the place where our users will be doing their gaming, their movie watching, their Web browsing and a lot of other computer entertainment functions. That will satisfy them. Playstation 3 is a computer. We don't need the PC.


Also note some other things that are said

on motion sensing


Quote:
SPIEGEL ONLINE: How many games utilizing this feature will actually come out in the first year?

Harrison: I expect every game to use the feature in some way. One thing we've all done when playing a game is move around the controller, whether you're playing a racing game or a football game. Now for the first time we can read both the primary input, which might be through the sticks, and learn what the player is doing through the secondary movement, and add the two together. This combination is a very significant advantage that's unique to the Playstation 3 controller.


on HDMI/blu-ray

Quote:
SPIEGEL ONLINE: The PS3 will play Blu-ray-discs. The movie industry, including Sony pictures, wants HDMI-interface and HDCP copy protection, which is now pushed back because Microsoft's HD-add-on-drive doesn't have the necessary interface. And now the cheaper version of the PS3 will also come without an HDMI-interface. So you're basically jeopardizing the strategy of Sony Pictures and other film studios to protect their content. Sounds like the decision may have been contentious at Sony?

Harrison: Not at all. The Blu-ray-disc-association, which manages the format of Blu-ray-discs, defines the specifications. Not Sony, not Sony Pictures. We are one member of this consortium, but not the chairman or boss. The specification of Blu-ray disc is that by 2011, HDMI has to be included in all Blu-ray-disc players. We adopt that specification in our machine that we will launch in 2006 -- five years aheaed of the specification requirement.



Quote:
SPIEGEL ONLINE: So the copy protection is the medium itself?

Harrison: Yes. Ten years from now the idea of sending 50 gigabytes online will be commonplace, but today -- no way. Not easily.

Hinting a social interface or myspace type service with PS3 online


Quote:
SPIEGEL ONLINE: You also mentioned MySpace in your presentation at the Electronic Entertainment Expo. Rather unusual for a console manufacturer ...

Harrison: What we are trying to do is to recognize that the power of a network is not in the operating system, but in the people that are connected to it and what they contribute to the network. That's what makes a network powerful. The reason something like MySpace is powerful is because you have the combined effect of hundreds of thousands or millions of people adding and growing the content of that network. That's what's interesting. It's a very powerful force.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: MySpace works because in many countries, nearly everybody owns a PC and nearly everybody's got Internet access. But to get into your network, you have to own a PS3. Do you think people will want to use the PS3 to create a network?

Harrison: Playstation 3 has a browser, so you can get into MySpace from your Playstation 3.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: It sounds like you're planning to do even more networking than you have already.

Harrison:Yes, we do. But I can't elaborate at the moment.

[Coded-Dude]

^regarding that comment
When I hear Phil say stuff like that I first think of:
Buying an XBOX 360 and then buying a Media Center PC....
MS: We'll incoporate everything together flawlesly(just buy the products. <-plural)
Sony's retort: We/You don't need no stinking PC!

btw thanks for posting more of the interview(translated) +rep

[gljvd]

The ps3 is not a computer .

First off if you open it to the web , you open it for viruses .

So where are the virus programs ?

If i can acess my email where are my spam filter and email clients

Where are my spyware cleaners ?

Where are my word compatible programs , my web browsers fully compatible with everything on the web.

Seems like a bold statement to make when they don't seem to understand the world of shit they are getting into.

Once you become popular enough , hackers and virus makers are going to start to target the ps3. Just look at the dead psp issue from trying to flash it and add programs to it

[LiquidEagle]

Do you understand what Linux is, gljvd? It seems like you haven't read this thread at all, especially the latest posts about Linux and how things are going to work opposed to Windows.

[xbdestroya]

Well, frankly I'll be shocked if PS3 runs anything besides signed code to begin with. As for general 'security' needs, Cell (the SPE running the OS) will sandbox things such that any problems that do occur shouldn't spillover to effect the system at large.

[Coded-Dude]

The ps3 is not a computer .

First off if you open it to the web , you open it for viruses .

So where are the virus programs ?

If i can acess my email where are my spam filter and email clients

Where are my spyware cleaners ?

Where are my word compatible programs , my web browsers fully compatible with everything on the web.

Seems like a bold statement to make when they don't seem to understand the world of shit they are getting into.

Once you become popular enough , hackers and virus makers are going to start to target the ps3. Just look at the dead psp issue from trying to flash it and add programs to it

yes it is

please explain further

they exist(sort of)

built into said client

not necessary

open office

thats from using unorthodoxed methods to get "un-signed" code to run on a closed platform. PS3 is semantically speaking - open. Linux will be seperate from teh main XMB interface and will have full programming ability. Just because this stuff is going on PS3 doesn't mean its the first tiem its ever been tried guys. Linux was created for the exact reason that sony is using it. OPEN FREE UNLIMITED DEVELOPMENT(of software)
The hardware will be more secure than the software for obvious reasons......

[EDIT] btw: "fully compatible with everything on the web" = DOES NOT EXIST!

[Viano]

There's not much to argue about ..lol. PS3 > home entertainment, PS4 > enhanced PS3 functionality, and maybe with PS5 ms will start sweating.

[rpgamer_2k5]

Gljvd, what the heck are you taking about?

"First off if you open it to the web , you open it for viruses ."
--> Viruses are very similar to biological viruses. They are programs (organisms) that coded (think of DNA) to attack a specific target OS, app exploit (receptors of a Cell). Window viruses don't infect OSX desktops. In fact many Windows NT viruses (includes XP, 2003, Vista, etc) don't even infect the older Win9x OSes. It would just be a benign virus.

"So where are the virus programs ?"
--> Huh. Now a prerequisite for computer are viruses. What next--- if a human has no harmful viruses, it's no longer human. O_O

"If i can acess my email where are my spam filter and email clients" What makes it difficult to emulate a spam-blocker?
--> There is nothing complicated about a spam-blocker. We see in on Linux, we'll see it on the PS3.

"Where are my spyware cleaners ?"
--> The PS3 uses Linux, why can it not have spyware cleaners? Your logic makes no sense at all.

"Where are my word compatible programs , my web browsers fully compatible with everything on the web."
--> Open Office? Is that not compatible to Word. At least try it out before posting anything else. Why can't there be a web browser full compatible with everything on the web? How do Linux and OS X users manage in the world of Windows.

"Seems like a bold statement to make when they don't seem to understand the world of shit they are getting into."

"Once you become popular enough , hackers and virus makers are going to start to target the ps3." Hackers are just crackers who are at the newbie level. Hacker does not equate to cracker. In fact, on the PS3 it's going to be difficult for newbs (the majority) to target PS3s. Cracks who are pros usually don't target newbs.

[Zer0-Sum]

If I can run Maya, Photoshop, a Wacom tablet and a word processor on the PS3 then all would be well with the idea. Yah right, when pigs fly out of my butt! get real Phil! I love the idea of a PS3, but replace my PC? Get real man....

[Nameless]

Personally I think people are taking the words replace PC too literally...
I believe Sony is targeting the media center PC market and not basic PC office operations. If done correctly the PS3 could handle all of your media center PC functionality (i.e. DVR, music, photos, videos, web browsing and gaming) If the web browsing is done well, I will be very impressed...

Only a fool would expect Sony to enable the ability to do word processing and excel operations on the console. It's unrealistic to expect the PS3 to completely replace basic PC functions, but it's realistic to consider the system a media center replacement.

[Gaul]

No, it doesn't concern me and I don't think it concerns the consumer either. Once you adopt a game system as your primary entertainment device, that's what you want. We think that Playstation 3 is the place where our users will be doing their gaming, their movie watching, their Web browsing and a lot of other computer entertainment functions. That will satisfy them. Playstation 3 is a computer. We don't need the PC.

It doesn't sound to me like he is saying the ps3 will REPLACE the PC. He's just saying that when people go out to buy the PS3 to be their "Primary Entertainment Device" It becomes a computer to that person, because they are going to treat it as such

[Nameless]

It doesn't sound to me like he is saying the ps3 will REPLACE the PC. He's just saying that when people go out to buy the PS3 to be their "Primary Entertainment Device" It becomes a computer to that person, because they are going to treat it as such
Exactly...
We are on the same page my friend...:cheers:

[Gaul]

All i want is your approval nameless :) you have made my day!!

[Nameless]

All i want is your approval nameless :) you have made my day!!
I will assume this is not a facetious statement…:susp:

[Homeru]

I think ps3 could only replace the computer entertainment side of pc’s and I assume that’s what Harrison meant in that article.

[Lucent Beam]

"..but it is stupid, if you'll forgive me saying so."

lol'ed

In regards to the PC comment: there's cocky and then there's confident. Now, I'm eat my words if Harrison throws out his own PC, but I really doubt the PS3 will edge out PC's overall.

[Zer0-Sum]

I'll eat my RAM sticks if the PS3 edges the PC out of any market! Entertainment, Web, movies, or video games. I am buying one, but lets all get real here and see that even the gaming market in the PC world is too huge to replace. World of Warcraft is testament to that fact alone.

[gljvd]

thats from using unorthodoxed methods to get "un-signed" code to run on a closed platform. PS3 is semantically speaking - open. Linux will be seperate from teh main XMB interface and will have full programming ability. Just because this stuff is going on PS3 doesn't mean its the first tiem its ever been tried guys. Linux was created for the exact reason that sony is using it. OPEN FREE UNLIMITED DEVELOPMENT(of software)
The hardware will be more secure than the software for obvious reasons......


The problem is that once something becomes popular everyone will target it .

The noob hackers and virus makers will target the playstation 3 . Just like windows has a huge amount of viruses because its the most popular .

Linux isn't secure only because its a better design than windows (and that is up in the air) but because the amount of users is nothing compared to windows.

However people will love to make a playstation 3 system killer .

The hardware may be safe , but how about the linux system. I'd love to see a soccer mom reinstall linux on the playstation because thier kids got a virus on it .

[LiquidEagle]

reformatting and reinstalling Linux isn't a problem on a computer...there's nothing keeping it from being every bit as easy on PS3. There's a point where it's okay to ask questions and be inquisitive but it gets stupid when people just look for something negative to grasp on to... c'mon guys.

The PS3 has the potential to replace every day-to-day function most gamers have, but I'm not counting on doing any modelling in Maya or editing in Photoshop with the thing :-p

[Zer0-Sum]

I want a Linux/Dual-Cell based worksation to run Maya with dual RSX and 4 gigs of RAM! Now that would be sweet rendering time baby!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am dreaming like a sucker of course....

[LiquidEagle]

:lol: that's quite a dream set-up!

[gljvd]

I'd rather have a dual chip quad core athlon 64 , with 16 gigs of ram attached to a grid of single chip quad core athlon 64s :-)

But thats just me

[Zer0-Sum]

:lol: that's quite a dream set-up!

Hell yah it is. Rendering would be so FAST. I f@cking HATE rendering time!!!! IT SUCKS ASS!!!!

I'd rather have a dual chip quad core athlon 64 , with 16 gigs of ram attached to a grid of single chip quad core athlon 64s :-)

But thats just me

If I was gonna go that route I would just do a huge grid of dual-cell based servers hooked up to said dream workstaion of mine above. Now that would be ruthelessness of the highest order!

[DofD]

I made a comment along this vein in the homebrew thread where I mentioned that IMO under normal conditions you won't be able to install any old downloaded program onto the PS3. The only way to install independently developed applications will be through Sony's e-distribution initiative. For if you leave the PS3 open to the user installing any old program from any source you leave the PS3 open to being compromised and possible Sony's online service as well. Limiting the methods for adding software like this allows Sony to evaluate the applications for security and other purposes. This is also why I don't think developers will be able to develop directly on the PS3 but rather in an emulation environment on a PC.

From the sketchy information available, it appears that the OS for the PS3 is following the Cell's architecture by using a multilayer kernels with applications only being able access kernel resources at a certain level for system security. This is an attempt to limit the damage a malicious program could do.

I feel that people will be a little surprised that the environment available for non-trusted developers will be far more limited than is currently being assumed. That is you won't have full access to the linux environment like you would in a regular linux install.

[gljvd]

If I was gonna go that route I would just do a huge grid of dual-cell based servers hooked up to said dream workstaion of mine above. Now that would be ruthelessness of the highest order!


Well not really . Because my set up would be usefull... What are you going to run thats made for use on a cell set up ?

[Zer0-Sum]

Well not really . Because my set up would be usefull... What are you going to run thats made for use on a cell set up ?

Like I said, it is dream. They could make a verion of Maya that runs on Cell easily because it already runs on Linux. I have offcial educational copies of Maya 5, 6, 6.5, and 7. All came with several discs, including a UNIX/Linux disc. Just optimize the program for Cell and BAM! A fast ass Maya workstation with masive rendering capabilities. It is not unpracticle at all, Autodesk would just have to do it. And maya is ALL I would use it for. Well, maybe Photoshop for texturing, but that could be done too I imagine.

[gljvd]

making something that runs , and making something that runs well is completely diffrent.

I actually don't think the spus woudl be good for 3d rendering , i think thier cache is just to little to hold the information they are going to be working on . Esp if its at movie res .

Also we really don't know how cell would compare in those tasks vs the athlon 64s and intel chips . Lets also not forget that amd and intel aren't sitting around . Amd is already talking about a very robust fpu core that would be added to thier chips . I believe its capable of 40gflops by itself . With a quad core athlon 64 you'd already be at 80 gflops with that fp unit. Depending on how its incorperated , it could be 1 fpu unit per core which could make that jump greatly for fpu intensive tasks .

[Zer0-Sum]

Not good at rendering? The medical industry is all on fire over the rendering capabilites of the Cell. It has been discused here many times. Medical imaging is very render intensive work. They love it because it is so fast at rendering the 3d images. I want it for Maya rendering.

[gljvd]

Not good at rendering? The medical industry is all on fire over the rendering capabilites of the Cell. It has been discused here many times. Medical imaging is very render intensive work. They love it because it is so fast at rendering the 3d images. I want it for Maya rendering.


Yes , but the needs of medical imaging and movie animation are two diffrent things .

Making corrections to some statements above (can't edit those )

Its a clear speed co processer that gives 25 gflops performance double percision . at 250mhz using 10watts power .

http://www.electronicsweekly.com/Articles/2006/03/15/37936/ClearspeedplansAMDco-processorlinkup.htm

That along with a quad core cpu would be a very nice option for render farms . Oh and the rumor of amd doubling thier fpu's in the next version of the athlon 64 early next year. Would make for a few nice jumps in tech.

[Red_Eyes]

Hmm... The PS3 can do everything a PC can do. So given a choice between buying a new PC for $1500, I rather buy a PS3 which can do everything a PC can do, has Blu-Ray support, and can play PS3, PS2, PS1, DVD, and CD.

[gljvd]

bold assumption red eyes .

[LiquidEagle]

Assumption? I don't see where you're coming from gljvd... The PS3 IS a computer. It may not have a case like one or a Dell logo on it, but it has every single making of a computer. What are the four components again? The arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), the control circuitry, the memory, and the input and output devices (SOURCE (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer)). If the PS3 contains all those elements entirely, why will it have trouble doing any PC functions?

I'm honestly baffled at how hard it is to convince you that the Cell was made for more than just gaming, and yes, it and the RSX are good at rendering graphics. It's not like Sony's just some brainless company tossing silicon out at random!

[Gaul]

I will assume this is not a facetious statement…

No i wasn't trying to be rude, I just worded it wrong. Made me sound self-centered, and I was hopin the smiley would make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside

[venomv]

The PS3 could do everything a computer can, provided the software is there, they still havn't really said what they are doing.

[cliffbo]

so let me get this right: we are looking at a computing behemoth, with a new disc format, state of the art chip and free online . thats a lot of enemies plotting to spoil the party. Immersion, Toshiba, MS and Nintendo. the next few years are going to be painful for many companies; do they risk the chance of flipping the ace and staying in the game or do they fold?

Immersion have already dealt themselves some new cards with their latest purchase. Toshiba have stuck. MS thought their cards where strong enough but Sony have upped the stakes. Nintendo thought they had an ace up their sleeve but find themselves sweating over their hand. and all the time Sony just stared unemotionaly across the table.

[venomv]

I'm not saying they should be saying everything they are going to do, just it is hard to really make a judgement on what may be.

[cliffbo]

I'm not saying they should be saying everything they are going to do, just it is hard to really make a judgement on what may be.

sorry Venomv that post wasn't directed at you. :) i agree with what you've said its just that i'm beginning to see the whole picture and its looking rosy.

[Voidler]

Toshiba's position is interesting. A double edged sword if you will. Good for them if PS3 fails, for the success of HD-DVD but bad for the advent of Cell. If PS3 succeeds, not so good for HD-DVD but a good position for their stake in Cell.

[makeitlookreal]

What the PS3 needs is a good OS with a good GUI. By loading up the playstation in a mode OTHER than playing games you should be able to use this OS to do anything a computer can do.

[cliffbo]

it would make sense, considering Sony are calling the PS3 futureproof, to give the PS3 the same potential as the PSP with firmware upgrades. when the PSP was released it ran at 222mhz which was upgradable to 333mhz. could it be that Sony are going to increase its potential slowly and not show the opposition what it can actually achieve straight out of the blocks. (i'm in deep deep water here) CP go easy on me. :)

i can see that a few people are going to be disappointed if it lacks certain features, but who's to say that they won't be included as a downloadable upgrade later.

[Nameless]

it would make sense, considering Sony are calling the PS3 futureproof, to give the PS3 the same potential as the PSP with firmware upgrades. when the PSP was released it ran at 222mhz which was upgradable to 333mhz. could it be that Sony are going to increase its potential slowly and not show the opposition what it can actually achieve straight out of the blocks. (i'm in deep deep water here) CP go easy on me. :)

i can see that a few people are going to be disappointed if it lacks certain features, but who's to say that they won't be included as a downloadable upgrade later.
A potential firmware update to affect PS3 CPU clock speed is feasible, but every unlikely... I'm lazy and did not look up the original specs for the cell, I can't remember if the native speed for the cell is 3.2 or if it's under clocked to that speed. If you increase the clock speed you have to consider temperature control and system stability. Also, the PS3 has great bus speed, but the increased clock speeds could create bottlenecks with the bus speed...

I believe the risk out weigh the advantages regarding increasing CPU clock speed in the PS3...

[Gaul]

It can't burn discs >.<. But i think thats balanced out by the ability to use Blu-Ray

[Coded-Dude]

Just like windows has a huge amount of viruses because its the most popular .You are still completely missing the point. Windows has so many viruses becasue it is so buggy and insecure. Its popularity is irrelevant. Linux/Unix is used just as much if not MORE than windows(just not in the PC sector). But still you see virtually NO damaging worms on linux(becasue like I said thechnically it doesn't get "viruses"). The serious linux hacks are gaining root privilages via some application, which is highly likely to happen ont eh PS3(I am not denying it).

Linux isn't secure only because its a better design than windows (and that is up in the air) but because the amount of users is nothing compared to windows.
Still up in the air, can you direct me to some technical information as to how windows is superior to linux(security wise). I think ytou have no idea what you are talking about. 75% of the internet runs on Unix/Linux. If it were as insecure as Windows you can bet your ass these "noob hackers" you refer to would have brought the internet down a long time ago.......

However people will love to make a playstation 3 system killer .
The most damaging thing they will do is erase the HD and or make the OS inoperable.
But remember, the PS3 shoudl still function without linux or the HD. THe hardware is safe.

The hardware may be safe , but how about the linux system. I'd love to see a soccer mom reinstall linux on the playstation because thier kids got a virus on it . I imagine Sony will provide a rescue/restore dics of some sort. Its not like you HAVE to be an advacned user to restore an operating system.


You guys shoudl seriously do some hand on researhc of linux before getting to up in arms abotu how allegedly insecure, or minimally used it actually is.

[venomv]

i'm beginning to see the whole picture and its looking rosy.

I am with you there.

[LinpinWangyFoot]

I am with you there.

me you and cliffbo then.... wow... our dreams are about to be realised

[digital neXus]

Viruses /professional viruses/ are created mostly by the haters of WINxx platforms (actually Bill Gates), and they are created on Linux/Unix even Win platforms. If all of the games for WIN/PC were ported to Linux/PC, but before that Linux creators could create LinerictZ (Linux Direct) v.11, we wouldn't need WINxx? Right? But because of that $ucker, Bill Hates (remindes of mr. Burns from Simpsons) as the richest man on Earth, he can easily pay a lot of money to any newspaper magazine, any game developing firm, etc... to stand up for his rights. Although, earlier versions of Win (3.0, 3.11) even DOS were created for playing games and other stuff, while Linux was mostly in command form of enviroment. So nowadays Linux have evolved, and why are there so little games ported for that platform? It's because people are not used to it. Really, I've tried SUSE/Linux on my PC in Bootable mode, I don't know how it's said, in a Windows look-a-like enviroment, and it recognized every fuckin' hardware on my PC. Even my TV card by ASUS was recognized perfectly (had troubles on WinXP because of DX). Truly I hate BGate$ for loosing many of my personal data. So why can't I sue him? He is sueing everybody on this planet for not having the same thoughts as he does. If every firm that created any kind of software (Adobe for example) from this day, ports or creates future version/s for Linux.....well think what would happen to Bill Hate$. You could use your PS3 as a truly god given, or whatever PC, with games and programs.

[LinpinWangyFoot]

Viruses /professional viruses/ are created mostly by the haters of WINxx platforms (actually Bill Gates), and they are created on Linux/Unix even Win platforms. If all of the games for WIN/PC were ported to Linux/PC, but before that Linux creators could create LinerictZ (Linux Direct) v.11, we wouldn't need WINxx? Right? But because of that $ucker, Bill Hates (remindes of mr. Burns from Simpsons) as the richest man on Earth, he can easily pay a lot of money to any newspaper magazine, any game developing firm, etc... to stand up for his rights. Although, earlier versions of Win (3.0, 3.11) even DOS were created for playing games and other stuff, while Linux was mostly in command form of enviroment. So nowadays Linux have evolved, and why are there so little games ported for that platform? It's because people are not used to it. Really, I've tried SUSE/Linux on my PC in Bootable mode, I don't know how it's said, in a Windows look-a-like enviroment, and it recognized every fuckin' hardware on my PC. Even my TV card by ASUS was recognized perfectly (had troubles on WinXP because of DX). Truly I hate BGate$ for loosing many of my personal data. So why can't I sue him? He is sueing everybody on this planet for not having the same thoughts as he does. If every firm that created any kind of software (Adobe for example) from this day, ports or creates future version/s for Linux.....well think what would happen to Bill Hate$.

wow man i just want to hear more from you

[Coded-Dude]

Viruses /professional viruses/ are created mostly by the haters of WINxx platforms (actually Bill Gates), and they are created on Linux/Unix even Win platforms. If all of the games for WIN/PC were ported to Linux/PC, but before that Linux creators could create LinerictZ (Linux Direct) v.11, we wouldn't need WINxx? Right? But because of that $ucker, Bill Hates (remindes of mr. Burns from Simpsons) as the richest man on Earth, he can easily pay a lot of money to any newspaper magazine, any game developing firm, etc... to stand up for his rights. Although, earlier versions of Win (3.0, 3.11) even DOS were created for playing games and other stuff, while Linux was mostly in command form of enviroment. So nowadays Linux have evolved, and why are there so little games ported for that platform? It's because people are not used to it. Really, I've tried SUSE/Linux on my PC in Bootable mode, I don't know how it's said, in a Windows look-a-like enviroment, and it recognized every fuckin' hardware on my PC. Even my TV card by ASUS was recognized perfectly (had troubles on WinXP because of DX). Truly I hate BGate$ for loosing many of my personal data. So why can't I sue him? He is sueing everybody on this planet for not having the same thoughts as he does. If every firm that created any kind of software (Adobe for example) from this day, ports or creates future version/s for Linux.....well think what would happen to Bill Hate$. You could use your PS3 as a truly god given, or whatever PC, with games and programs.


excellent points and let me tell you why; its the exact same argument that people are using for the security issue. Windows is HUGE in teh PC sector, in fact it owns the market. Which is why it maintains leadership in Professional applications/games. Linux is free and thus its users woudl expect free games. There is generally some open source implementation of every application you can think of, but the ones that are good do cost, to develop, and windows is a larger market to develop for. BUT THIS IS THE PC SECTOR ONLY. Though to counter that there have been ports. I played Unreal Tournament, or one of those similar PC shooter games. I even bought it specificially for linux(and it came with an additional code in case I wanted to install it one windows as well). Anywho, I feel your frustration. If people would sit back and think abotu what they are "buying" into we might have a lot of epiphanies occurring all at once(that could be scarry though).

Can't wait for PS3 Linux kit!:jonsass:

[LinpinWangyFoot]

Dude you are getting me very excited! is Harrison right? are we about to embark on a journey that leads us away from corporate control into a world of creative contribution? jesus that would be great. give the power back to us... those that made PCs the success it was and who knows where it will lead.

[digital neXus]

excellent points and let me tell you why; its the exact same argument that people are using for the security issue. Windows is HUGE in teh PC sector, in fact it owns the market. Which is why it maintains leadership in Professional applications/games. Linux is free and thus its users woudl expect free games. There is generally some open source implementation of every application you can think of, but the ones that are good do cost, to develop, and windows is a larger market to develop for. BUT THIS IS THE PC SECTOR ONLY. Though to counter that there have been ports. I played Unreal Tournament, or one of those similar PC shooter games. I even bought it specificially for linux(and it came with an additional code in case I wanted to install it one windows as well). Anywho, I feel your frustration. If people would sit back and think abotu what they are "buying" into we might have a lot of epiphanies occurring all at once(that could be scarry though).

Can't wait for PS3 Linux kit!:jonsass:

Well said too.
But as you see in order to install Linux on PC you need to use certain commands. And those commands change your installation method, or would you like your Linux to be in a command mode or that visual thingy mode.
As Linux is, as you said, is an open source, it's easier for pro programmers to see if anything is wrong with Linux, fix it, repack it, and send as a better version, although it's maybe, or even the best platform ever created.
Then again, I don't think that the linux for PS3 will be in that command mode. As someone said: just plug and play.
For PC is more of plug and pray :)

[LiquidEagle]

plug and pray :laugh:

Well since PS3 will come with the XMB as its default GUI, I'm tempted to think the Linux will be a full-blown Linux capable of doing everything we could do with it on "real" computers... Do we have anybody here with PS2 linux experience that can comment on how Linux worked for that? That might give us some indication but I still think Sony's support of Linux for PS3 will be even bigger since the HDD will be built in...

[gljvd]

You are still completely missing the point. Windows has so many viruses becasue it is so buggy and insecure. Its popularity is irrelevant. Linux/Unix is used just as much if not MORE than windows(just not in the PC sector). But still you see virtually NO damaging worms on linux(becasue like I said thechnically it doesn't get "viruses"). The serious linux hacks are gaining root privilages via some application, which is highly likely to happen ont eh PS3(I am not denying it).


Please , windows has tis share of bugs , but don't kid yourself and believe that linux is bug free.

That is the most inane thing i've heard in a few days .

The fact is , that once linux is installed on every ps3 out there , hackers and virus makers will start to target the ps3.

Who ever makes the first ps3 virus is going to get alot of press . So you can bet they will target it .

Still up in the air, can you direct me to some technical information as to how windows is superior to linux(security wise). I think ytou have no idea what you are talking about. 75% of the internet runs on Unix/Linux. If it were as insecure as Windows you can bet your ass these "noob hackers" you refer to would have brought the internet down a long time ago.......



Yes because we've never seen a linux server brought down by hackers ... your a very silly person who lives in thier own little world

The most damaging thing they will do is erase the HD and or make the OS inoperable.
But remember, the PS3 shoudl still function without linux or the HD. THe hardware is safe.



So what is the xbox liv.... I mean sony live guide button going to do ? is it not there to bring up your os so you can use the online components ?

We already know that 1 of the spus will be taken up for os reasons . So the os will be active at all times just like in the xbox .

However the xbox 360 has its own os that isn't windows or linux and will only run signed coded .

I imagine Sony will provide a rescue/restore dics of some sort. Its not like you HAVE to be an advacned user to restore an operating system.


You guys shoudl seriously do some hand on researhc of linux before getting to up in arms abotu how allegedly insecure, or minimally used it actually is.
I ran linux for a very long time. Its nice but don't kid yourself , its secure because the amount of users on it is very low.

Sure its on alot of websites (and websites stil lget hacked daily ) and on alot of servers(That get hacked) but the home use is very low and the chances of a home user actually tracking the hacker down or the virus maker down and sueing them is zip. But you can bet once you hack a server and cause damage they will be looking at the ip address in question and quickly back track you. It still happens to smaller sites all the time. But the biggers sites are rarely hacked anymore

[Sephiroth_VII]

plug and pray :laugh:
This was actually a very used joke back when Microsoft introduced P&P. I still have a lot of old PC mags from that era, and P&P was extremely unstable and had little hardware support in Win 98, thereby resulting in the name, Plug and Pray, since about 5% of the new windows compatible hardware supported it.

@gljvd: in all likeliness, Sony won't allow us to run code not downloadsed through the PSNP. Without cracking the PS3, that is. It's more than likely that Sony will approve certain programs, such as Firefox and Open Office, and make an agreem,ent to launch a PS3 compartible version, if the original version isn't already compatible wiith whatever Linux distro PS3 will use.

If they won't distribute all software via PSNP, I'm pretty sure that if we try to install a program, which hasn't been approved by Sony, we'll get some kind of warning message, telling us that this software might not be secure, or just incompatible with PS3 Linux.

I'm certain that Sony won't allow us to just f*ck around in linux, since even though it probably won't affect the main PS3 programming or anything, fucking up the HDD, which is used for so many things, could prove to render your PS3 useless or slow, until you install a new one. This could give the PS3 a reputation for being unstable, which could scare away potential buyers.

[digital neXus]

Ps3's Linux will be very stable because it will be builded only for him. You won't need to install certain drivers as in PC ver. maybe for camera and other USB stuff. You can install software/programs on PS3's Linux, and that really depends on the software. For example: Graphic utilities or some sort of media players or music generators /exmp. Cubase/ can be modified in order to work on any Linux Platform you only need to modify or create new Dll's in order to interact between Hardware and Software.

[LiquidEagle]

Well my thinking is that since we'll have a standard "OS" in the XMB for normal users, the advanced option in Linux should have complete freedom since it's for the more advanced users anyways -- they don't want to be limited like that!

[rpgamer_2k5]

Linux is a lot more secure because it isn't riddled with exploits like Windows, thanks to spaghetti coding. That's why Windows is so diffficult to protect from hackers, low organization and hence maintaining security is quite difficult. And thanks to the closed source environment, shit even gets more worse. Open source allows others to give a helping hand and quickly identify the problem. Remember no one is perfect and there ought to be a use who could find the problem and quickly provide a patch. A user more passionate about improving the OS environment is usually more efficient than one that is getting paid.

I'm guessing that there would be an advanced version of Linux available for advanced users. Those who use Linux knows that this OS is not for newbies at all. Even Linux newbie users have a great command of OSes from Apple's OS to MS's Windows. Besides most newb hackers target PCs that are easy to target, aka Windows PC because of the exploits. Most newbs are very paranoid on the PC these days. They don't open any link, even certificate prompts, etc are closed. People don't intentionally download viruses anymore like back in 1998.

[makeitlookreal]

If the PS3 is to truly replace the home PC it needs more RAM. That is as simple as it gets. The PS3 has a great processor and great CPU. But for many software programs it will need much more RAM! Forget gaming, and consider other types of programs. Many typical work PC's have a gigabyte or so of RAM. Especially if you are doing imaging, music, video or other type of work.

[Red_Eyes]

Linux really does not need that much ram. Beside, with a harddrive to swap, ram would not be a problem. As for the software, anything that runs on linux should be able to run on the Linux for the PS3.

[Domination]

SOURCE (http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=2634)

I don't believe the PS3 will entirely replace the PC as we know it. But i do believe it'll shorten the gap. At this day in age, PCs remain dominate because they provide a great source of access for consumers across the broad. And because of this, there is one in just about every household for this reason alone. So I'm almost certain that by introducing a lot of PC features in other devices that PCs will surely become less important - especially to consumers possessing little background knowledge on PCs (PC illiterate) or those only using a PC for entertainment purposes. I can also see PCs falling tremendously in cost by next year. So I think, in a way, Philes statement is correct in a few ways.

[Gaul]

Well it better shorten the gap. Thats what alot of people are paying for.

But like i said before, i don't think he means it will literrally take the PC's place. He's just saying it will replace to PC for alot of people because they will use it that way.

[digital neXus]

I'm studying to be an Microsoft MSCA(needed for my job) and the guy that is teaching said that a standard desktop PC will be no longer needed for it will be replaced with laptop/notebook with replaceble DVD-CD(maybe HD-DVD or BluRay)burners, HDD, and RAM. Maybe in future you could replace your GraphCard. AND THAT IS TRUE . So for full pleasure you only need external Monitor, Keyboard and Mouse and other plug devices. So it's possible that PS3 will replace PC. Linux doesnt suck RAM as Windows does. 256MB RAM or even 512 is enough for software to run.

[Viper]

*sigh*

Claiming something is a 10 future proof roduct that can replace the PC is arrogant as hell. Granted for many it can supplant the PC if they use it for basic media functionality only.

Look at PC graphics 10 year ago and tell me that the PS3 will keep up with that kind of drastic increase. Look at PC RAM 10 years ago and tell me the PS3 (which has 1/4th of my current PC, much less one from 10 years from now) will keep up with PC. Look at what all else has increased or expanded and explain to me how a closed system that cannot have the main internals upgraded keep pace with the PC so as to replace it?

[Coded-Dude]

I agree Viper; it won't last 10 years, but don't be surprised if PS4 or even PS5 can replace the PC entirely, and is fully upgradeable(since PS3 is already partially there).

##

Please , windows has tis share of bugs , but don't kid yourself and believe that linux is bug free.p
Continue to use sarcasm and exxageration to fault my comments, if htats all you got...
When/Where did I say linxu was bug free? I said a couple things. Windows is FULL of bugs(fact) and Linux is FAR less bugggier, and has FAR faster updates(fact). As already stated most bugs in Linux, are application based(not kernel based). Feel free to find me an easiely exploitable kernel hack that is severly damaging to the system.....I could make a list of MS exploits, but we might need to place em in the 50k page thread. Do you see my point yet?

The fact is , that once linux is installed on every ps3 out there , hackers and virus makers will start to target the ps3.
Who ever makes the first ps3 virus is going to get alot of press . So you can bet they will target it .

That is somewhat true, but like I said it hasn't happened on a massive level yet. Think back(not sure how old you are), about how many viruses/worms you've heard of that made news. I will guarantee you 99.999% of those viruses were Windows hacks(the other .001% only mad ehte news because it was a Unix/Linx hack - which are VERY scarce). I said EVERYTHING is expoiltable, but Windows has far more, that can do far more damage. But you can continue to "think" that I believe Linux is invinsible.....

Yes because we've never seen a linux server brought down by hackers ... your a very silly person who lives in thier own little worldAgain never said that...but continue to use mis-quotations and misconception to make me sound ignorant. I've NEVER seen it done on any of my sytems and I have done unix/linux security fo r well over 5 years now at one of hte LARGEST comupter comanies in the WORLD. If I had a nickel for eveythime we lost a windows server, I could have retired a few years ago.

We already know that 1 of the spus will be taken up for os reasons . So the os will be active at all times just like in the xbox .That is an assumption. We KNOW that one SPU will be reserved for the operating system at all times, but that in no way, shape, or form, clarifies the fact of whether or not the OS will always be on or even accessible the entire tiem the console is on. There may be a process keeping the kernel loaded up, but that doesn't mean the OS is accessible. Linux does have single user mode, that only allows for non-networked, local console acess.... I expect it do be unavailabel at times, jsut to lighten the lload for XMB processes(I'm talking about memory and swapping, not CPU)

However the xbox 360 has its own os that isn't windows or linux and will only run signed coded .You think its not a windows based kernel, know that is inane.

Sure its on alot of websites (and websites stil lget hacked daily ) and on alot of servers(That get hacked) but the home use is very low and the chances of a home user actually tracking the hacker down or the virus maker down and sueing them is zip. But you can bet once you hack a server and cause damage they will be looking at the ip address in question and quickly back track you. It still happens to smaller sites all the time. But the biggers sites are rarely hacked anymoreagain, where are you getting your information? seems more like a formed opinion based on nothingness rather than observed factual accounts.

[Gaul]

pwned

[digital neXus]

Well it's better for me to replace PS3 for PS4 in speaking of buying PS4 for another 600$ than to replace my PC over and over again. Every PC conf. is constanly upgradable. At least, for every PC junkies, they need to upgrade parts every 3 months. From GraphCards to RAM memory(ATIX1800 to ATIX1900 to ATIX3000seriesGTZX200) whatever. How many money will be spent on pointless upgrading only for games. Many people don't upgrade PC for Maya or 3DMAX, Photoshop, Cubase.......GAMES GUYS, IT"S ALL ABOUT GAMES!!!!

[Gaul]

Not if your rich... then you can upgrade all the time if you want. I'm assuming your all rich???

[makeitlookreal]

I really do feel that if a few things happen the PS3 could replace the PC for at least a few years before becoming more or less obsolete.

1) Sony needs to provide the ability to install a useful and more common OS on the HDD. For example, perhaps a special form of Linux or perhaps the Mac OSX in some form.

2) Sony needs to allow the RAM to be upgraded for PC functions of the console. Seriously, if anything is going to hurt the PC as a computer it is the lack of RAM. This baby needs more RAM, period. If someone could choose to install a gig or two more RAM this system could last longer.

3) Make sure that in PC or computer mode that the OS and programs can make good use of the SPE's to get the full power of Cell.

Basically, lets look at it this way.

Do you know of any home PC with a processor that can compare to the Cell chip? Probably not!

Do you know of any home PC with any form of Blu-ray? There are a few coming out, but they will be much more expensive than the PS3.

Do you know of any home PC with at least a 7800GTX GPU? Sure! But again, they are quite expensive and not real common.

I don't think the PS3 would replace the PC and remain competitive for more than a few years (lets say three or four), but by then so many people will have PS3's that I believe many would become accustomed to it and would continue using it as a PC.

Of course I like the idea as the PS3 as a PC, but personally I am purchasing it to get the best realistic graphics possible.

[digital neXus]

Do you know of any home PC with a processor that can compare to the Cell chip? Probably not!

Do you know of any home PC with any form of Blu-ray? There are a few coming out, but they will be much more expensive than the PS3.

Do you know of any home PC with at least a 7800GTX GPU? Sure! But again, they are quite expensive and not real common.

I told before and will tell now. PC IS, IN 97%, USED FOR GAMES AND MUSIC AND VIDEO AND INTERNET.

[Coded-Dude]

Sony needs to provide the ability to install a useful and more common OS on the HDD.
Are you saying regular linux is not common or usefull, and that it needs to be a special version to be of any value? If so I disagree, but agree with most of your other points, I think the main obstacle for the PS3 is memory.

[Stelio]

Sadly, I do not see the PS3 replaceing my audio/post production suite. UNLESS some big companies decide to code for it. Some good emulation can do the trick. Even then, it still will not replace it. Perhaps, add to the arsenal.

Come to think of it...it would actually be cheaper. The upgrade timeline would be longer and at least half the cost.

The potential exists, the outcome remains uncertain.

Eventually, integration will be taking over our lives.

It's good that they have this vision. One day we will truely see Chang3.

[Coded-Dude]

what do you use? and are you saying if Sony made Vegas available for PS3, you wouldn't use it?