PS3 Firmware 3.21 announced, removes feature

Before I start, don’t get excited. Sony’s announced a new PlayStation 3 firmware tonight that’s scheduled to hit the PlayStation Network on April 1. However, the only thing that this firmware update does is removes the “Other OS” capability of the older PlayStation 3 models. According to Sony, this is “due to security concerns”.

Those using the feature may choose not to install this new update, however, it means lost access to the PlayStation Network, playback of copyright-protected videos, and of games that require PS3 firmware 3.21 or later.

One less for “everything”.

Or perhaps this is an April Fool’s joke – a cleverly organized prank by the PlayStation Network team. A firmware version 3.20 was never released; we’ve only seen a rumored image of it sporting 3D output.

If it is a joke, I’ve got to hand it to Sony. They’ve got balls. Three of ’em.

PS3 Firmware (v3.21) Update [PlayStation.Blog]