Next PS3 firmware update will remove “Install Other OS” option

Linux fans face another defeat.  This time not to the overarching power of software giants Windows and Mac OS but instead Sony and the PlayStation 3.  All PS3 consoles will be stripped of the “Install Other OS” option found in the system settings, disabling users to install Linux onto their PS3s.  Sure, the removal of this feature won’t be affecting the majority of PS3 users, but it is still a mightly blow to Linux fans and console tinkerers.  Why the sudden change in heart?  Sony says it’s “due to security concerns” and that “disabling the “Other OS” feature will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure system.”  If you are adament about keeping this option, you’re sorta outta luck; if you do not download firmware update (v3.21) you will lose access to PlayStation Network and playing games online, among other things.  The update hits all PS3s April 1.  It should be noted that all new Slim PS3s were manufactured without the “Other OS” option, so this really only applies to all fat PS3 owners out there.

[Via PSBlog; Engadget]

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