PlayStation 3 Getting Harmony Remote Compatibility

In a move that will leave home theater enthusiasts thrilled and everyone else asking what the big deal is, Logitech has confirmed plans to release an adapter that will let the PlayStation 3 play nice with its Harmony line of programmable universal remotes.

Compatible with any Harmony remote, the adapter will enable owners to control movie playback with their remote, as well as power the PlayStation 3 on and off, without the loss of a USB port.

The PS3 will act as any other compatible device, meaning that Harmony users will be able to power on their console, television and audio receiver--and even set their television and receiver to the proper inputs--with the press of a single button.

Other details, such as pricing and availability, aren't yet available. In an blog post, Logitech marketing manager Troy Petersen promised more information "very soon."

Thanks to an IR receiver--something the PlayStation 3 lacks--the Xbox 360 is already Harmony-compatible. Logitech even released an Xbox 360-branded Harmony, though all versions of the remote work with the system.