Sony plans to launch a new firmware update later this week that will end Linux OS support on the PlayStation 3 game console.
The feature was used almost exclusively to install Linux onto the PS3, and Sony made the decision over possible security issues related to the third-party OS. Specifically, gamers used Debian, Ubuntu, OpenSUSE and Fedora on the the bigger PS3s before Sony decided to remove it from the slim models.
"Install Other OS" was on PS3 units before the slim models released last September, the company said in a blog post.
The v3.21 firmware update "will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure system."
PS3 owners are urged to install the update, but have the final decision as to whether or not they wish to do so. If they don't upgrade, they won't be able to sign in to PlayStation Network, play game titles or Blu-ray movies requiring v3.21, or playback all copyrighted-protected videos stored on a media server.
Many comments in the Sony blog announcing the firmware update have been less than pleasant, as angry gamers expressed their displeasure with Sony's decision.
The new firmware update will become available on Thursday, April 1. Have you used Linux on the PS3? If so, are you planning on updating your firmware after learning of this news?
