Before Netflix came to the 360, I didn’t have the movie rental service, and didn’t really feel like I was missing anything. Even after it launched, and everyone started talking about how awesome it was to stream movies and TV shows on the 360, I wondered what the big deal was. Before long, though, I succumbed and got my own subscription, and I have to admit, it’s pretty neat to be able to watch movies instantly on my 360 instead of waiting for them to come in the mail. Now PS3 fanboys will be able to appreciate the service as well, because after months of rumors, it was confirmed today that Netflix is coming to the PS3.

According to the press release, the service will begin next month, with no additional cost… to those who already have a Netflix subscription. Unlike the 360, Netflix on the PS3 will utilize a disc, which will be shipped to you for free and is available for pre-order now. I thought that was a little strange at first, but apparently this will allow users to access their Queues right from the system, instead of having to use a computer. That’s pretty convenient.

“Initially, watching movies instantly streamed from Netflix via the PS3 system will be enabled by a free, instant streaming Blu-ray disc that is being made available to all Netflix members. The free instant streaming disc leverages Blu-ray's BD-Live™ technology to access the Internet and activate the Netflix user interface on the PS3 system, which must be online via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.”

If I remember correctly, Netflix saw a jump in subscribers after partnering with the 360, so this should be good news for them as well. What do you say, PS3 owners? Is this enough to make you pay $8.99 a month for streaming movie rentals?

[Source]