Thats not the same though, this could for the use of streaming older games but it would probably be tied down to a subscription similiar to that of netflix. It's not like actual BC unless it can play PS1, PS2 and PS3 games that i already own. Streaming requires the internet, but proper BC just requires the disc. 

Based on current rumours, the PS4 won't be powerful enough to emulate the Cell.

Nothing? I'm already a PS+ user.

Yeah, I agree with this, using a streaming service for older games wouldn't be the same as being backward compatible.

I honestly couldn't care less about backwards compatibility on the PS4. I have a backwards compatible PS3 and in the 5+ years I've owned it, I've never once had the urge to play a PS1 or PS2 game. I have limited free time to spend on gaming, and I'd rather play and experience new games instead of replaying old PS1 and PS2 games.

If Sony managing to pull off some form of BC in the PS4, it will most likely be:
1) Emulation of PS1, and maybe PS2 games
2) BC streaming service for PS3 and PSN games
3) the BC streaming service would probably not be available at launch
4) The BC streaming service will most definitely be a paid service, and will most likely be in addition to PSN+

i would not care about bc i will just keep my PS3 hooked up to the tv in my den and have the ps4 in my room

With a receiver, a PS3, a WiiU, maybe an Ouya and a PS4 I'd simply not have enough HDMI ports. So BC would be much appreciated.

Gaikai will probably be part of a subscription service given its nature. I'm not sure if they will add it to PS+ or have it as a standalone service.

I'm hoping they use it for free demos for everyone, just require the subscription for actual games. They should still be supporting PS1 and PS2 games for download but through a service you could eliminate the need to have it on your HDD.

I wonder if a cloud service would open up the old library up completely because they could just charge a subscription and let you play as many games as you want. If they have cloud but charge you to buy games then they shouldn't be placing a subscription on it.

I'd imagine PS4 games will not be available for streaming at all, but if there is no on system ability to play PS3 games than I expect PS3 games to work through streaming in some manner.

Here are the possibilities I'm thinking:

1. Stand alone subscription to Gaikai. Opens up the full PS1 and PS2 library currently available, adding more as time goes by. There is only so much time someone can play in a day and Sony just needs to pay for the servers. A subscription will cover cost and serve as revenue, regardless of the number of games you let users play. Price accordingly, $10 a month. Includes all other Gaikai features and Vita is supported as well along with mobiles with Bluetooth to a DualShock.

2. Gaikai is a PS+ feature option and games retain pricing to purchase. The cloud removes the need to download onto the HDD but remains an option. Includes cloud streaming for full game trials, eliminating the need for demos all together but if publishers provide them streamed demos will be available for non PS+ members. Allows non subscribers to experience the cloud service and play demos instantly. Or something along these lines. It will also work across mobile devices.

I hope they either don't include it or make a separate BC model for at least $100 more. Imo, next Gen systems have no obligation to provide BC. When everyone bought their ps3 and 360 games, they were FOR the ps3 and 360, nothing else. If someone wants to then play those games on another device, I personally feel that's a luxury rather than a right. Otherwise, if they're not interested in paying a fee, they're welcome to keep their ps3 or 360 to play their old games.

I hope both M$ and Sony avoid free BC in their new systems. Makes a big difference for them for income/profit, but a smaller difference to each individual consumer.

Oh well, I would have to connect the PS4 next to my PS3.

I would rather Sony make a more expensive model with the Cell onboard for BC.