Following many reports that Sony’s latest PlayStation 3 firmware update, version 3.50, blocks third-party controllers, popular accessory maker Mad Catz has said it will replace any affected controller.
That being said, Mad Catz says that “all Mad Catz products will continue to function” even after the update, with the exception of a few models from 2008 and earlier.
3.50, as reported by angry PS3 owners, blocks third party peripherals, accessories and USB storage devices.
Sony’s response was that the ban would block “dangerous counterfeits,” mainly controllers that Sony says have a chance of exploding. Most seem to think the move is a way to stop more products from being used to jailbreak the console.
Users have claimed that Mad Catz’s 2008 Wireless PS3 GamePad, 2008 Wired PS3 GamePad and PS3 Wireless MicroCon have all ceased working after the update.
Says the accessory maker: “Mad Catz would like to take this opportunity to put gamers’ minds at ease. With the exception of a small quantity of controllers sold before 2008, we believe that all Mad Catz products will continue to function as they did prior to the 3.50 Firmware update.”
“Any consumer who owns a Mad Catz product and is experiencing an issue, including an issue with the PlayStation 3 Firmware update should contact Mad Catz customer services. Providing the product is within warranty, Mad Catz will be happy to offer a suitable replacement.”
Result for: peripherals
According to Sony America President Kaz Hirai, the company is set to take a loss on every Slim PS3 unit sold.
The console was launched last week after months of speculation, and will hit on September 1st with a pricetag of $299 USD/ 299 EU/ £249 / 29,980 YEN.
“If you’re just talking about the hardware alone, the quick answer is yes,” Hirai added, via the Times Online.
He did note afterwards however: “That makes good headlines, but I don’t actually know that that’s the true nature of the business that we’re all in, whether it’s PlayStation, Xbox or the Wii. I think the better indicator is to look at the business as a whole platform, to ask: are you profitable in terms of the hardware, software and peripherals. And the answer to that question is yes on a gross profit level since the last fiscal year.”
Result for: peripherals
The Windows version of boxee, a media center program based on the open source XBMC media player, has entered public alpha. Boxee has been available for Linux, OS X, and Apple TV for some time, but the Windows version has been in closed testing.
Boxee is unique among media center applications because it’s primarily oriented toward viewing online content. In fact it doesn’t even support TV tuner peripherals, but can connect to a great deal of TV content found online.
One notable exception is Hulu. After a decision by one or more of Hulu’s content owners earlier this year, they have actively worked to block Boxee users from using their service.
Boxee for Windows is expected to move from alpha to beta status some time later this year.
To download your own copy you need to register at the Boxee website first. If you would like to give feedback to Boxee’s developers we have a sticky thread on our forum for just that purpose.
You can also read our Boxee preview from earlier this year for more information.
