By Tom Ivan
Sony has been hit with a class action lawsuit following its decision to remove the ability to install alternative operating systems on PS3.
The console’s Other OS functionality was disabled via a firmware update released at the beginning of April because of “security concerns", according to Sony.
A lawsuit filed on behalf of California-based plaintiff Anthony Ventura claims that the decision "reflected Sony's concerns that the Other OS feature might be used by 'hackers' to copy and/or steal gaming and other content”, reports Kotaku.
"Sony's decision to force users to disable the Other OS function was based on its own interest and was made at the expense of its customers," it continues.
The plaintiff has yet to install the latest firmware update so that he can continue to use the "extremely valuable" Other OS feature. Failure to install the update has resulted in his inability to access the PlayStation Network, play PS3 games online, or play some newly released titles.
Brought on behalf of "a nationwide class of all persons who purchased a PS3 during the period November 17, 2006 and March 27, 2010 and who did not resell their PS3", the suit seeks “damages for Plaintiff and each class member, including but not limited to compensatory damages; restitution; injunctive relief; attorneys' fees; and the cost of this suit”.
