One the most important selling points of the PlayStation 3 is its no additional charge for online play feature. However, reports have been surfacing about a two-layered subscription model for the PlayStation Network – much like the levels of Xbox Live, but fundamentally different.

During a presentation, emphasizing Sony’s plans to make its video game business profitable, Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Kaz Hirai confirmed the company’s plans for a “premium level” of subscription for PSN. “We will be building upon our current free [PSN] service offering with premium content and services to start the subscription model,” Hirai told the attendees.

As reassurance against PlayStation 3 owners pay-to-play fears, Hirai reassured owners that the current level of service will remain free of charge.

“SCE will further increase sales by offering users new entertainment through the combination of hardware, software, peripheral, and PlayStation Network,” Hirai said in a statement given to CVG. “Especially in the online area, we are studying the possibility of introducing a subscription model, offering premium content and services, in addition to the current free services.