Sony announces HD TV downloads for PS3

Sony has announced that high-definition video downloads will be soon be available for the PlayStation 3.

The service will be launched in Japan, on 13 December, when the release of driving game Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will be accompanied by motor-racing related content.

The game launch will be supported with a documentary about the Nissan car featured in the game, and paid-for HD TV content will be available in early January.

The BBC’s ‘Top Gear’ programme will be one of the first shows to be made available, with other titles expected to follow rapidly.

The range of material available for download to the PS3 will be expanded to include films from Sony Pictures and probably other studios as well.

Details on pricing, and availability outside Japan, have not yet been released.