Wired News is running an article based around the question of whether distributed computing could be used on the next-generation consoles. After all, these systems are going to have some serious power under the lid that is not going to be used when the system is idle, so why not use them for projects like Folding@Home or SETI?:Imagine the possibilities of millions of gaming consoles (Sony has sold more than 70 million PlayStation 2s) contributing to a community previously limited to thousands of capable processors.
How might we end up with a distributed computing client in our gaming systems? Making the client available on disc is the least intrusive means, but it will only target a subset of gaming system owners who go out of their way to get it, along with bearing the cost to produce the discs. A better method of delivery to the consumer would be to build the client as an update to firmware. As an optional update, users would be presented with an offer to install an approved distributed client of their choice into their system anytime they performed a critical system update over the internet.
So, let my console fold proteins or search for E.T. when I'm not using it. Let the public take a larger role in innovative research efforts. Most importantly, let me be able to end any console debate with, "So what if your system lets you watch movies and TV, listen to music and play games? My system cures cancer."
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