Sony's game unit said Tuesday it was delaying for the second time the launch of an online virtual universe for the PlayStation 3 because the service needs further development.
"Home" had originally been scheduled for launch in late 2007 but was delayed until early 2008. Now Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. plans to open up an early version of the virtual universe in the second half of 2008.
"We understand that we are asking PS3 and prospective PS3 users to wait a bit longer, but we have come to the conclusion that we need more time to refine the service to ensure a more focused gaming entertainment experience than what it is today," said the head of Sony's game unit, Kazuo Hirai.
The delay is another setback to Sony, which has much riding on the PS3 but faces fierce competition from Microsoft's XBox 360 and Nintendo's Wii.
Sony has said previously that the free service would allow PS3 users to set up an apartment for life-like virtual characters, or avatars, who can invite friends over, share pictures and videos, and play online games.
Users can personalise their virtual home with furniture, art and other items and chat through audio or video links.
The service is seen as a cross between social community website MySpace and Linden Lab's Second Life, which allows "residents" to build homes, create vehicles, nightclubs and stores, and to communicate with instant messaging.
The Los Angeles Times reported on Monday that Sony was preparing to launch a separate online video service for the PS3 as soon as the US summer, quoting unnamed studio executives familiar with the plan.
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