ABC TV and Sony Computer Entertainment Australia (SCE Aust.) are collaborating on a trial to deliver ABCs iView via the PlayStation 3 (PS3) console.

The trial aims for PS3 consumers to be able to watch ABC iView optimised on their TV through the device via the PlayStation Network, the companys online content and service platform.

The PS3 has an internet-enabled browser and video playback function that allows its users to play videos while navigating options with the game controller.

ABC iView is a free internet broadcasting service that offers a range of ABC TV programs streamed in high resolution.

ABC’s director of television, Kim Dalton, indicated that the trial is the first in a series of developments to extend ABC iView to a wider audience.

“We want to make our content as accessible as possible to our audience. Increasingly, that means extending our online reach so Australians can watch what they want, when they want it. Today’s gaming consoles, televisions and DVD players all have internet capability and we’re excited to be able to team up with Sony Playstation, as the first step in integrating ABC TV content into new online platforms and technologies,” said Dalton.

SCE Aust. announced the initiative with ABC TV and other key broadcasters at a games convention in Cologne, Germany.

According to the ABC, iView has over 300 programs available on demand and in July 2009, it averaged 764,000 visits with 47% of users visiting more than once.