On Tuesday, rumors began circulating about Sony's next console -- just revealed as the PlayStation 4 -- and integration with tablets. A big part of the scuttlebutt focused on the ability to possibly play streamed games via the cloud. During Wednesday night's conference, Sony did acknowledge some use of tablets and smartphones with the next-generation console, but precise details are still a bit slim.
Tablet and smartphone users can expect to use their devices to interact with the social features of the PlayStation 4, including catching up with PlayStation Network friends. You'll also be able to browse videos related to PlayStation 4. Unfortunately, that's also about all we know for sure. Sony made no explicit mention of which tablets and smartphones will work with the PlayStation 4, but we have to assume iOS devices are part of the plan.
Sony's acquisition of cloud-gaming service Gaikai will roll into the new tech of PlayStation 4, and according to some rather vague statements during the press event, we can expect to see PlayStation 1, PlayStation 2, and PlayStation 3 games running on "any" device, "someday." Granted, without any solid explanation, you should take those statements with a hefty amount of skepticism.
Sony did not reveal the design of the PlayStation 4, outside of the controller, and has yet to announce pricing details. The console is set for a Holiday 2013 launch.
UPDATE: Sony has sent out a press release with a few more details on the "second screen" experience for PlayStation 4. The iPhone and iPad are both mentioned, and will receive an all new companion app. The app sounds like it will offer functionality similar to Xbox SmartGlass.
"A new application from SCE called 'PlayStation App' will enable iPhone, iPad, and Android-based smartphones and tablets to become second screens," reads the press release. "Once installed on these devices, users can, for example, see maps on their second screens when playing an adventure game, purchase PS4 games while away from home and download it directly to the console at home, or remotely watch other gamers playing on their devices."
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Image Source: The Verge
