Sony Launches Playstation Vue Online TV Service Starting at $50 Per Month

By Kamal Nayan - 19 Mar '15 01:07AM

Sony has launched the PlayStation Vue Web video service - a cheaper alternative to cable - with packages starting at $50.

The newly announced video service allows users to access live TV and on-demand video has been in test mode since November.

Sony has made available the new Vue online TV services in three cities - New York, Chicago and Philadelphia and plans to eventually expand to other cities as well.

Vue will be available initially on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 and in coming months it will be expanded to include iPad users too.

The new service is going to have more than 85 channels that includes programming from three major networks CBS, Fox and NBCUniversal [CMCSAN.UL] in addition to media companies Discovery Communications , Scripps Networks Interactive, Turner Broadcasting [TWXTB.UL] and Viacom, Reuters reported. From April AMC Network content will also be available.

The starter plan - $50 a month - will include more than 50 channels.

Sony joins several new competitors in online video services. It will compete with Dish Network Corp, which unveiled a $20-a-month video streaming service, named Sling TV, targeted at younger consumers who shun pricey cable and satellite subscriptions, Reuters added.

Verizon is also planning to launch its own online video service. Apple is reportedly in talks with programmers to offer a slimmed down bundle of about 25 channels.