Sony to reveal multi-channel broadband TV service at CES - report

Sony is rumoured to be forming its own broadband TV service, and is gearing up for a reveal at this year's Consumer Electronics Show, according to a new report.

Variety reports that the service could be incorporated into Sony's suite of hardware - which would cover PS3, tablets and Bravia televisions - or the manufacturer may opt to launch it via a dedicated set-top box.

The report claims that Sony is currently in negotiations with two major content providers to bulk out the service, and that the channels on offer are said to be 'linear'. However, as the service is rumoured to be broadband-based, it could remove region locks on certain stations, making region-specific channels available worldwide.

However, the report also claims that the cost of establishing such a service could run into the billions, and without dedicated fibre optic lines for the service Sony would have to spend and negotiate hard to get a footing in the TV market, a move that seems unwise given Sony's less than inspiring financials last year.

What do you think about Sony launching a TV service via PS3 and other devices? Is the market too flooded already? Let us know below.

Cheers Spong.