Sony has announced overnight that Vodafone is its preferred partner for 3G data services in Australia and is providing a number of incentives to encourage consumers to choose Vodafone over other 3G networks.
It’s worth noting that the PlayStation Vita isn’t locked to any one service, users can use any carrier they choose, but the 3G version of the Vita will come with a Vodafone SIM card, and a voucher for a free copy of WipEout 2048 that is valid once users begin using the Vodafone 3G service.
Telstra is known to have the most efficient and widespread 3G service in Australia, but we’re assuming that this decision was made by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, and Australia is part of the broader deal.
“With social gaming and connectivity at the heart of PlayStation Vita,” said SCEE CEO Jim Ryan, “it is important that we partner with a market leading network provider, to ensure users have a high quality 3G experience.
“Partnering with Vodafone will enable PS Vita users in the selected countries to always be connected with their PlayStation life, friends and games, wherever they are.”
Vodafone, as you’d expect, is pretty happy with its end of the bargain.
“We want our customers to have the best choice of devices and PlayStation Vita is a great addition to our range,” said Patrick Chomet, Vodafone’s Group Terminals Director.
“We know from our application downloads that games are hugely popular with our customers, so we’re delighted to be SCEE’s preferred connectivity partner for 3G Vita devices sold across Europe and other selected regional markets.”
Personally, I’m leaning more towards avoiding 3G altogether, considering the Wi-Fi version of the PlayStation Vita already feels like a better deal. The 3G version retails at $449.95, while the simple bare bones Wi-Fi Vita is $349.95.
Considering the US are only paying $50 more for a 3G enabled Vita, the $100 Australian disparity feels a little much.
Sony partners with Vodafone for Vita [Gamesindustry.biz]
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