Yellow Dog Linux launches for PS3

Sony has been saying that it sees its new next-gen machine, the PlayStation 3, as more of a computer than a console. Terra Soft Solutions is now making Yellow Dog Linux 5.0 available for download for the PS3, taking that idea a step closer to reality.

The operating system will be rolling out in three stages. The first starts today, November 27, and users can obtain the software from YDL.net. The second starts December 11, when customers can buy DVDs from the Terra Soft store, priced at $99.99--the final phase is due sometime during the week of December 25, when downloads will be available via public mirrors. Once the software is released for download on the public mirrors, it will be free of charge.

To install Yellow Dog Linux, users must first split the PS3's drive into two partitions so that the GameOS and Linux can run on dual partitions. The gamer will also need a USB keyboard and mouse to run the operating system. The installation manual is available on Terra Soft's Web site.

According to the manual, when Sony Computer Entertainment designed the PS3, "it was fully intended that you, a PS3 owner, could play games, watch movies, view photos, listen to music, and run a full-featured Linux operating system that transforms your PS3 into a home computer."

The manual adds that Yellow Dog Linux would make available several new uses for the PS3. It reads, "Everything you need to browse the web, check and compose e-mail, do your school homework or take your office work home is included."