PlayStation 3 owners affected by the dreaded 8001050F error, it may be safe to turn on your systems again. Reports from users locked out by the system's clock bug are indicating our day-long nightmare is finally over.
Reader tips, forum posts and tests at Kotaku Towers are indicating that the PlayStation 3 has "fixed" itself as of 3:30 PST, with no software update required. Sony officially blamed a bug in the system's internal clock for the error that rendered numerous PlayStation Trophy-enabled games unplayable and limited the use of PlayStation Network downloads.
We're testing our own original PlayStation 3 units—my 60 GB launch system now works, as does Demon's Souls, which syncs my Trophy list correctly—and seeking official comment from Sony Computer Entertainment.
In the meantime, please let us know if you're experiencing continuing issues with your PlayStation 3 or you're back in the business of playing in 4D.
Update: According to the official U.S. PlayStation.blog, the issue has been "resolved." Patrick Seybold, senior director, corporate communications writes:
We are aware that the internal clock functionality in the PS3 units other than the slim model, recognized the year 2010 as a leap year. Having the internal clock date change from February 29 to March 1 (both GMT), we have verified that the symptoms are now resolved and that users are able to use their PS3 normally.
If the time displayed on the XMB is still incorrect, users are able to adjust time settings manually or via the internet. If we have new information, we will update you through the PlayStation.Blog or PlayStation.com.