Sony on Tuesday announced it will once again delay the launch of its Home virtual online world for its PlayStation 3 gaming console, with the new date slated for sometime in the fall. Last September, Sony said Home will launch early in 2008. If Sony holds to the new date, this latest announcement would mean the interactive online service will arrive about a year after its intended launch date. The company did promise a limited-test service is planned to start this summer.

Current such services, including Second Life, are enjoying enormous success, with millions of users logging on. Companies are not ignoring such growth, as they are launching stores and offering services that users are willing to pay for with real money. Sony promises Home will offer similar businesses, including advertising, electronic shopping and games.

The online community, announced back in March of last year, will allow users to interact with other gamers from around the world. It also promises to be a gaming platform itself for casual games. It will act an online interface for Sony's online TV and movie content as well. The name comes from each user getting a virtual apartment they can furnish or decorate as they please, though content out in public must be approved by Sony.