This content is restricted.

Netflix Streaming on PS3 Gets 1080i and Surround Sound With No Disc Required

Streaming Netflix to your PS3 is about to get a whole lot nicer. Starting next week you'll be able to stream Instant Watch content without the Netflix disc—Hallelujah!—as well as watch some content in 1080i with 5.1-channel surround sound.

Starting Monday, PS3 owners will be able to access Netflix via a new app in the video category of the PS3 media bar. Keeping the Netflix disc around for use as a coaster is optional. The new Netflix will offer some content in 1080i resolution and 5.1-channel surround sound in partnership with Dolby Digital Plus.

These improvements come along with a sleek new UI that Sony says will offer "a much richer and faster browsing experience, content search directly on the device, and dramatic improvements in how fast playback starts." Excellent. [PlayStation Blog]

Send an email to Kyle VanHemert, the author of this post, at kvanhemert@gizmodo.com.

All I can say is that its about damn time! Having to put in the disc everytime I wanted to watch something was starting to get to me. I even looked into getting GoogleTV just for Netflix!