Sony today confirmed that their Playstation Network for the Playstation 3 would be free. I double checked with a spokeswoman to confirm that this means chatting, friends lists and online gaming were all free and she said they were.

The free online service will also support web browsing using a USB keyboard. The console will let users bring up multiple windows at the same time. Finally, the online access will allow gamers to log into the Playstation Store where they can use their electronic wallet to purchase games, download new content, demos and trailers.

Downloadable first party games will all cost less than $15 at launch. Sony also confirmed that the electornic wallet will use straight cash instead of a point system. Both Microsoft and Nintendo's download systems use points. Brian Crecente

PLAYSTATION(R) Network Offers Unrestrained Community and Creativity
In addition to a wide array of software titles, SCEA today also unveiled
the online and network services provided through PS3, which will offer
distinctive benefits to consumers and developers alike. Consumers will be
able to enjoy a wide array of PS3 network capabilities, with basic features
offered absolutely free from day one. Developers will benefit from the open
platform policy of SCEA, which will allow them more freedom and creativity in
the development of their games and online/network services. The end result
will be more than just a place to play games, but a rich online environment
with strong community aspects as distinctive as the titles themselves.
The entry way into PLAYSTATION Network is XMB(TM) (Xross Media Bar), which
is the navigation system that enables a complete suite of entertainment
experiences in three key areas: gaming; network and web connectivity; and
other entertainment contents such as movies and music. The intuitive XMB
interface, which is already featured on more than 20 million PSP(R)
(PlayStation(R) Portable) shipped worldwide, allows PS3 users to experience
multiplayer games across the network; communicate with other players via chat,
voice or video; browse the web; download gaming content; store/view pictures
and video; download and listen to music; and shop online.
Through the online PLAYSTATION(R) Store, consumers can find such items as
game demos, game-related content and downloadable casual games, including
titles developed by Sony Computer Entertainment World Wide Studios exclusively
for download and play only on PS3, such as Blast Factor. Once users create a
unique, secure PlayStation profile, they cannot only communicate with other
PS3 users, they can also utilize an electronic wallet to purchase content in
the PLAYSTATION Store. Downloadable first party games will cost less than $15
at launch. More content will be added on a regular basis.

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