Sony has officially launched its high-quality movie streaming service, previously known as Bravia Core and now rebranded as Sony Pictures Core, on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles. The move expands the availability of the service beyond Sony Bravia TVs and Xperia devices, offering PlayStation users exclusive access to a vast library of films.
Sony Pictures Core utilizes Pure Stream technology, capable of streaming HDR movies at an impressive bitrate of up to 80Mbps, a level akin to the quality of 4K UHD Blu-ray. This significantly surpasses the data rates offered by major competitors such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, providing users with a visually superior experience, particularly on compatible high-end TVs.
Sony's emphasis on video quality is reinforced by its claim to have the largest collection of IMAX Enhanced films among streaming services.
Sony Pictures Core sets itself apart by offering an exclusive, early access window for select Sony Pictures films. Users in markets such as the U.K., France, Germany, and Japan can already access the early access title, "Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story." This move aims to attract users who seek premier access to popular titles before they are available on other digital platforms.
The service's library boasts a curated selection of up to 2,000 movies, including blockbuster hits like "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse," "Spider-Man: No Way Home," "Uncharted," "The Equalizer," "No Hard Feelings," "Bullet Train," and "Ghostbusters: Afterlife." While the library is smaller compared to some competitors, it includes major releases, catering to a wide range of preferences.
To sweeten the deal for PlayStation Plus Premium and Deluxe members, Sony is offering a rotating catalog of up to 100 movies for free streaming. This curated collection, available through the Sony Pictures Core app, is ad-free and regularly updated. While the selection may evolve over time and vary by region, it adds significant value to the premium PlayStation Plus memberships.
The Sony Pictures Core app is now available on PS5 in 23 markets, accessible through the media section, and on the PS Store for PS4 users. While the library may be smaller than some competitors, the emphasis on high-bitrate streaming and partnerships with the PlayStation Plus program positions Sony Pictures Core as a noteworthy addition to the growing landscape of streaming services.
Sony has expressed its commitment to rebranding Bravia Core to Sony Pictures Core on other platforms in the coming year, maintaining continuity across its ecosystem.