You can't say that you're really surprised by the news, but Sony have just announced that their brainchild, PlayStation Home will now be released later than expected. Originally scheduled for "September or October 2007" (that's last year), it seems that the project's not done yet, and could do with a little more time in development.

They've invited more applicants from the pool of PS3 users to participate in the Expanded Closed Beta, which has been extended until the middle of the year. This move has pushed the Open Beta service back to "Fall 2008" (that's Novemberish, hopefully).


Images from PlayStation Home
Kazuo Hirai, President and Group CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. explains:

"We understand that we are asking PS3 and prospective PS3 users to wait a bit longer, but we have come to the conclusion that we need more time to refine the service to ensure a more focused gaming entertainment experience than what it is today. Our overarching objective is to provide users with new gaming experiences that are available only on PLAYSTATION Home. Spending more time on the development and on the Closed Beta testing reaffirms our commitment to bringing a quality service, maintaining the PlayStation tradition."

The Open Beta service is being built around new and exciting community gaming experiences - and promises to connect PlayStation games with Home, as well as providing places and items from within the games. As soon as we get any further details on the Home Closed Beta testing features, how to register for the service, or when the Open Beta will commence, we'll let you know. Till then - sit tight!