PlayStation 3 gets Da Vinci Code boost

The Da Vinci Code could allow Sony to showcase the cutting-edge media features of the PlayStation 3

The film version of Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code could be the secret to a successful launch for Sony's PlayStation 3, analysts believe. 

The popular movie offers the consumer electronics vendor an opportunity to showcase the cutting-edge media features of the new console, according to research from Nomura Securities in Tokyo. 

"Having a hit in-house movie could be a big factor behind Sony making its target of shipping six million PlayStation 3 consoles in the first year at a price of more than $540 each," said Nomura Securities analyst Eiichi Katayama in a research report.

The PlayStation 3 will feature a built-in Blu-ray disk drive with a storage capacity of 25GB, enough to hold a number of feature-length high-definition movies.

Problems with the Blu-ray disk have been blamed for the forthcoming console's long-delayed launch and high price compared to competitors.

Sony has said that the PlayStation 3 will be launched worldwide in mid-November. The cheapest model will cost $499, and a version with extra features including High-Definition Multi-Media Interface video output will cost $599.

But Sony's ability to release unique content from its movie division in the new Blu-ray format could be a double winner for the company, as analysts believe it will encourage acceptance of the format and boost sales of the console.

Microsoft's Xbox 360 currently contains a standard DVD drive, but the company has plans to include an HD-DVD drive in future models. 

"The movie business has long hoped for the Blu-ray disc format to take off, and The Da Vinci Code could be the first major title on Blu-ray," said Katayama.