Sony wants Blu-ray in two million homes by April

Sony predicts that by April 2007, six million homes worldwide will be using the high-definition Blu-ray format, thanks to sales of its PlayStation 3 gaming consoles.

Two versions of Sony's console will be released on 17 November, putting not just the latest computer graphics but also a Blu-ray player into the living rooms of millions. The higher-end model will support HDMI and a 1080p HD output resolution.

Two million PS3 sales are anticipated in Europe alone by spring. Speaking at consumer elctronics show IFA in Berlin, Sony spokesman Nick Sharples, who is also a board member of the Blu-ray Disc Association, said: "The PS3 will drive the Blu-ray format into homes just like the PS2 did with DVD."

The PS3 will be priced at €499 and €599, depending on the model.

Many Hollywood studios are continuing to pledge their allegiance to the Blu-ray format. Twentieth Century Fox and Warner Home Video will be launching Syriana, Full Metal Jacket, Fantastic Four and the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen on Blu-ray discs from mid-November.

Paramount has also announced that Mission Impossible III will be its first high-definition title. However, alongside its Blu-ray release will be a version in HD-DVD and DVD, as it hedges its bets in the high-definition format war.

More stories from the IFA consumer electronics show:
Philips claims first in race for first PC-less Skype phone
Sony wants Blu-ray in two million homes by April
Philips looking to take a bite of Apple's Nano 
TDK unveils 50GB Blu-ray discs 
Sharp unveils high-def projectors
Beg and Gravel for Commodore's media player