Next Generation is reporting that the PlayStation 3 is to launch in Japan and North America in September, plus details on PlayStation HUB.

According to Next Generation's industry sources who have seen a games release schedule, the PlayStation 3 will launch in September. Although not explicitly mentioning the PlayStation 3 hardware, or release territory, Next Generation has been lead to believe that a September launch is planned. According to Next Generation many in the industry are now speculating that the PlayStation 3 will launch on September 16 in Japan, followed by a U.S. release on September 21.

Next Generation is also reporting that the PlayStation HUB, Sony's answer to Xbox Live, will feature many of the same services that Xbox Live provides. These will include downloadable demos, live chat, independent games and online play. The HUB has been described by developers and a "subscriber service," which suggests it will follow the same business model as Xbox Live.

A SCEA spokesperson has told Next Generation that the company does not comment on rumours, but Next Generation says that an announcement regarding HUB will be made is a few weeks.