[Source Kotaku]

NetFlix Streamers Get a Surround Sound Update Starting With the PS3

Starting next week PS3 owners will be the first Netflix customer to be able to stream their movies with 5.1-channel surround sound.

The improved audio will come via the use of Dolby Digital Plus, according to Netflix which plans to add more device support over time.

"Netflix is committed to delivering an unparalleled experience to its members who watch TV shows and movies streamed instantly over the Internet," said Greg Peters, Netflix vice president of product development. "Netflix required an audio solution that could efficiently deliver an outstanding surround sound experience for a wide range of consumer devices. Dolby Digital Plus proved to be the best solution to meet our needs and the needs of our device partners."

The new sound for PS3 owners will come via a new built-in app for Netflix that will be found on the Playstation 3's cross media bar under a new Netflix icon in the video category starting on Monday. PS3 owners will just need to sign-in with their PlayStation Network accounts, though a Netflix account will still be required.

Other improvements to the service, according to Sony, include:

A new user interface, including the recently added search functionality, will deliver a much richer and faster browsing experience, making it easier to find the specific titles you're looking for or to discover new content.

Some movies and TV shows will be viewable in 1080i resolution, offering an enhanced visual experience as more consumers adopt HDTVs.

The amount of time to start playback will be improved.

An increasing number of movies and TV shows will be viewable with subtitles or alternate audio tracks.

Because the 360 was the first console to launch Netflix, I've tended to use that for all of my movie streaming needs. But with this audio upgrade, and no longer needing to hunt up that Netflix disc, I'm definitely going to check out more movies on the PS3 now.

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Sweet!  Looks like I'll be using my PS3 for Netflix until the 360 gets this!

The prophecy has come true!!

The Next generation of netflix Sound doesn't begin until SONY says it begins!!!!!

Man, nobody cares?

This is a fantastic update because you get surround sound and you don't have to use the cursed disc anymore.

Does the Xbox version have better frame rate and textures?

hmm... I might have to reconsider my thoughts on netflix. Seems to get better and better every day.

Maybe I'll try out the free month after this update comes to see if the selection is worth the $8/mo.

No, but I can use my universal remote with my Xbox.

Not outside America.... at least Lovefilm is coming to the UK

Netflix is getting better and better every day and it is totally worth.  They recently signed a deal with NBC so all their shows will be on Instant Watch and new episodes will appear the day after they first air.

I believe they also have a deal with some of the big movie studios (I forget which ones) where new movies will apear a month after they release on DVD/BluRay.

Damn Microsoft Money hatted remotes -_-;