Ubuntu :: New PlayStation 3 Update Removes Support

Sony plans to release a new Playstation 3 firmware update worldwide this week in hopes of combating potential software piracy. System update v3.21 will disable the console's "Install Other OS" feature, which allowed users to install the Linux operating system. The feature is currently only available in PlayStation 3 models released prior to the "slim" redesign that launched in September 2009. The update will go live on April 1. SCEA's corporate communications director Patrick Seybold notes on the PlayStation Blog the feature is being removed due to "security concerns."

"In addition, disabling the "Other OS" feature will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure system," Seybold wrote. Those who use Linux can choose not to upgrade, however, Sony lists several features that will no longer be available: Ability to sign in to PlayStation Network and use network features that require signing in to PlayStation Network, such as online features of PS3 games and chat Playback of PS3 software titles or Blu-ray Disc videos that require PS3 system software version 3.21 or later.Playback of copyright-protected videos that are stored on a media server (when DTCP-IP is enabled under Settings) Use of new features and improvements that are available on PS3 system software 3.21 or later."For those PS3 users who are currently using the "Other OS" feature but choose to install the system software update, to avoid data loss they first need to back-up any data stored within the hard drive partition used by the "Other OS," as they will not be able to access that data following the update," Seybold added.