After an initially shoddy implementation, Netflix on the PS3 got better and better. Right now, it's one of the best ways to get Netflix streaming. It's not perfect, though, with the rather puzzling need to place a specific (though free) Netflix disc in the PS3 every time you want to watch something.

Starting Monday, that will change, along with several other cool upgrades.

In addition to eliminating the need for a disc, the Netflix interface on the PS3 gets an overhaul. The current interface, though a little slow and rather clunky, gets the job done. The new interface looks a lot slicker, and is somewhat similar to the Netflix interface on the Apple TV.

Most exciting is that you'll be able to watch some content at 1080p, double the current resolution of 720p. How many shows/movies will be available at 1080p, and how good the picture quality will be, remains to be seen.

The PS3 will also be the first device to support 5.1 Dolby Digital Plus on select videos. Dolby Digital Plus is a more modern codec than Dolby Digital, allowing for greater sound quality and/or lower bitrates. Even if the sound quality is the same, the upgrade from the current 2.0 Dolby Digital is welcome.

The Netflix app will be free and available to everyone on October 18. Other than installing the app, you'll just need a Netflix subscription which currently starts at $9 a month for one disc at a time and unlimited amounts of streaming.

Netflix.com