On April 1, we’ll have a new firmware update for PS3, which will remove the OtherOS functionality and render any Linux installs on PS3 useless.

Of course, you can opt to not update, but you won’t be able to game online or connect to PSN at all.

Details:

The next program software update for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) program will be released on April 1, 2010 (JST), and will disable the “Install Other OS” feature that was obtainable on the PS3 systems prior to the present slimmer models, launched in September 2009. This feature enabled users to install an operating program, but due to security concerns, Sony Pc Entertainment will remove the functionality through the 3.21 program software update.

In addition, disabling the “Other OS” feature will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure program.

Consumers and organizations that currently use the “Other OS” feature can choose not to upgrade their PS3 systems, even though the following functions will no longer be obtainable:

– Ability to sign in to PlayStation Network and use network functions that require signing in to PlayStation Network, such as online functions of PS3 games and chat
– Playback of PS3 software titles or Blu-ray Disc videos that require PS3 program software version 3.21 or later
– Playback of copyright-protected videos that are stored on a media server (when DTCP-IP is enabled under Settings)
– Use of new functions and improvements that are obtainable on PS3 program software 3.21 or later

For those PS3 users who are currently using the “Other OS” feature but choose to install the program software update, to avoid data loss they initial need to back-up any data stored inside the tough drive partition utilized by the “Other OS,” as they will not be able to access that data following the update.

That’s quite the poor news, we here at PS3Legends.com adore our Linux on PS3!

Source – Sony Playstation Blog