AP reports from Japan electronics show now that:

Sony Corp.'s twice delayed online "Home" virtual world for the PlayStation 3 console will be available sometime later this year, while U.S. software maker Microsoft Corp., which competes with its Xbox 360, is starting "New Xbox Experience" worldwide Nov. 19.

Microsoft's service will be adapted to various nations, but people will be able to communicate with other Xbox 360 users around the world, according to the Redmond, Washington-based company.

Further the article adds In both Sony's and Microsoft's virtual worlds, players can personalize their avatars, choosing hairstyles, facial features and clothing. Akagawa said avatars will be able to dress up like heroes in hit video games.

The squeeze is on for the virtual world platforms to improve their offerings and get customer loyalty as the big boys make the big splash. It is a massive threat, way beyond the wet firecracker from Google with Lively. The consoles have content, have users and have fans that sit out in the night to jump on the new titles--made by an industry of developers. Will the virtual world market be able to survive the squeeze from the console going MMO on one side and the Tween platforms building brand and user base on the other?