Sony accused of deceit over PS3 OS features

Sony has been sued this week for removing the Linux install option from the first-generation PS3 in its latest firmware update. The class-action lawsuit filed on Tuesday argued that Sony broke its sales contract by taking out an advertised feature. The console maker lied to "millions of unsuspecting customers" by telling them they could install an OS only to remove the option in 3.21, the plaintiff Anthony Ventura said.

The change has led some to already hack the feature back in by using a mix of older firmware and using modified files. While successful, it would prevent players from joining others online or playing some games by checking for newer firmware.

He also accused Sony of ulterior motives. At the time, it had said the existence of the feature prompted "security concerns," but Ventura's lawsuit contended that Sony actually wanted to curb piracy. Installing Linux has previously given users access to the PS3's file system and the potential to get around copy protection systems. All slim PS3 models already go without the feature.

The lawsuit as a class-action would cover everyone who bought and kept a PS3 from the system's November 2006 launch through to the firmware's availability on March 27th of this year. Specific damages weren't requested but would go above $5 million. [via Eurogamer]

By Electronista Staff