Sony PS3 Firmware Update 3.21 Will Remove "Other OS" Functionality

Tweet

Those who may be using a PS3 and taking advantage of the “Other OS” functionality may want to listen up for a minute because as of April 1, 2010 you will need to make a decision that involves either continuing to use that feature of upgrading to firmware 3.21 and having it taken away.

The bad news is coming directly from the official Sony Playstation blog and seems to be pretty clear;

“The next system software update for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) system will be released on April 1, 2010 (JST), and will disable the “Install Other OS” feature that was available on the PS3 systems prior to the current slimmer models, launched in September 2009.”

Sony is further stating that this feature is being removed due to security concerns, and by removing it PS3 users will be able to keep having “access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners.” Of course that is thrown in with the having a “more secure system” line.

In short, if you are currently using, or think you may want to use the Other OS feature to do things like install and run Linux, you will need to hold off on the 3.21 update. But that said, while it sounds like a good idea, there will be some side effects of not updating.

As for what those side effects will be, perhaps the most important, it looks like the ability to sign into the PlayStation Network and use network features will be removed. Additionally, playback of PS3 or Blu-ray titles that require 3.21 could be an issue moving forward, as well as playback of copyright protected videos that are stored on a media server.

In the end, if you feel the Other OS feature is important, you will be able to continue using it. On the other hand though, these older systems may prove to be a wanted item moving forward.

Finally, Sony has also recommended that anyone who had been using the Other OS feature should back up any data before performing the firmware update because the data will not be accessible after.

One thing did strike me as funny here, I cannot help think — April 1, April Fools Day. But that is most likely just wishful thinking on my part.