Tokyo - Sony Computer Entertainment is in talks with companies about potential commercial application of the same distributed computing technology utilized by Folding@Home, a Stanford University project that harnesses the computing power of PlayStation 3 consoles to conduct medical research, the Financial Times reported.

"This kind of computing model could be used in a commercial application," Sony Computer Entertainment chief technology officer Masa Chatani told FT.

"For example, a start-up or a pharmaceutical company that lacks a super-computer could utilize this kind of infrastructure. We are discussing various options with companies and exploring commercial applications."

Chatani added that PS3 owner participation in the non-profit Folding@Home project is far greater than anticipated.

The company is exploring whether for-profit companies utilizing gamers' machines would have to offer them incentives, like free products or points, in order to gain access.

Related Links:
http://www.ft.com/cms/s/1238b9f2-e799-11db-8098-000b5df10621.html

http://folding.stanford.edu/FAQ-PS3.html