Sony is planning to release a digital tuner for the PlayStation 3 in 2008 turning it into a programmable TV recorder, according to Sony Computer Entertainment New Zealand boss Warwick Light. The device is scheduled for release in March 2008. The information was revealed at a interview with The Press. It is currently unclear exactly how the functionality will work and whether it will be available outside of New Zealand.
“We’re also hoping next year – about the same time that Freeview launches its terrestrial broadcasting service (expected to be in March) – to release a digital tuner for the PS3, turning it into a programmable TV recorder.”
Our guess is a USB device similar to the PSP TV Tuner will be use along with a firmware update. The hard drive will be used to allow digital recording. Freeview is already available in the UK, so it is likely to reach there.