Until now, Netflix subscribers have had to insert a special disc each time they wanted to watch movies on the Sony PlayStation 3. As of Monday, no longer.
On Monday, Oct. 18, Sony will transform that disc into an app that will be accessible from the main screen of the game console, eliminating the need for a disc.
In addition, there's another bonus: some of the movies that can be downloaded from the Netflix service will be in 1080p and Dolby 5.1 surround sound, using Dolby Digital PlusSony said on its PlayStation blog.
"In addition to eliminating the disc, there is a new user interface that brings a much richer and faster browsing experience, content search directly on the device, and dramatic improvements in how fast playback starts," Sony added.
Dolby executives said in a statement that the Dolby Digital Plus technology actually supports up to 7.1 channels of digital sound.
"Netflix is committed to delivering an unparalleled experience to its members who watch TV shows and movies streamed instantly over the Internet," added Greg Peters, Netflix vice president of product development, in a statement. "Netflix required an audio solution that could efficiently deliver an outstanding surround sound experience for a wide range of consumer devices. Dolby Digital Plus proved to be the best solution to meet our needs and the needs of our device partners."
In September, Netflix extended streaming movies to Canada, and executives said that they are exploring the option of launching streaming-only plans within the United States. Streaming also contributed to the company's second-quarter profits.
The company's streaming option has helped drive rival Blockbuster into bankruptcy, and the Netflix stock price to an all-time high in April.
Netflix offers streaming options via both the Microsoft Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii; only the latter requires a disc.
Editor's Note: Sony said later on Thursday that the new Netflix app would stream 1080p video. This story has also been corrected to reflect the streaming options of the three consoles.