Sony Computer Entertainment Europe today officially announces personal video recording functionality for the PlayStation 3 at the Games Convention in Leipzig. The "PlayTV" external peripheral combines a dual-channel digital TV tuner and personal video recorder (PVR) and will launch "early 2008" in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, with other PAL territories receiving the device later next year.

PlayTV will operate on the Digital Video Broadcasting – Terrestrial format (DVB-T), and features a seven day electronic programme guide, called EPG2. Digital television can be recorded directly onto the PS3 hard drive, or transferred to the PlayStation Portable handheld console.

• PlayTV’s two TV tuners are High Definition ready and are able to view, record and play back High Definition signals in full HD1080P to fully complement PS3’s already impressive High Definition credentials.
• Unlike the electronic programme guides found on conventional satellite and cable services, PlayTV’s EPG is lightning fast, and simple to use with either PS3’s SIXAXIS wireless controller or the BD remote control to really enhance viewing pleasure.
• Intuitive controls, single button help features, tutorial videos and simple navigation make PlayTV a positive joy to use compared with the complexity of some standalone PVR models
• Seamless connectivity with PSP allows you to set recordings, watch Live TV and recorded TV programmes remotely on PSP via a Wi-Fi connection (using Remote Play feature). Alternatively, quickly transcode recorded TV shows for high quality viewing to PSP by USB cable for remote viewing away from the home.
• Optional on-screen graphical display provides a wealth of information about the status of PlayTV and provides quick access to programme information, stored TV programmes and the controls to pause or record live TV. PlayTV will also set the correct interface for either Standard Definition or High Definition displays, maximising the viewing experience.
• PlayTV will evolve with time, with great added value functionality being updated via PLAYSTATION Network; a feature that sets it above all other set top boxes. PlayTV will never be out of date.

"The introduction of PlayTV really will extend the already broad entertainment credentials of PS3, and makes it an exceptionally attractive proposition for the whole family," said David Reeves, President of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. "PS3 already provides High Definition gaming, Blu-ray Disc movies, music, video, photo album, web browsing and PLAYSTATION Network support. With the introduction of PlayTV’s state of the art TV tuner and PVR functionality, PS3 is now the best choice of home entertainment hub for the whole family."