Slimmer PS3 in store at E3?
By Nilay Patel 
posted May 13th 2009 2:54PM
posted May 13th 2009 2:54PM
Rumors of some sort of Sony announcement at E3 have been floating around for a couple weeks now, and it certainly seems like something's afoot -- hot on the heels of that officially non-existent white US DualShock 3 appearing this morning, we're hearing that a revised PS3 is in the works. It's not clear exactly what's going down, but the hot whispers right now say that it's the long-rumored slimmed-down redesign of the current console, not just a color change or storage bump. That makes a certain amount of sense, given the endless chatter of a price cut and Sir Howard Stringer's recent comments about the system being too expensive -- a trimmed-up redesign is right on schedule with those smaller Cell and RSX chips, and it could still possibly include some of that rumored motion-sensing hardware while driving down costs. On the other hand, after all this speculation and hype it would be a total Sony move to just pump out the same machine in a different color with maybe a new pack-in game, so we're not holding our breath. Let's say we're, oh, "cautiously optimistic." That work for you?
Update: Sony UK is currently denying the rumor with a curt "We currently don't have any plans for a redesigned PS3 at this time." Okay -- but what else would you expect them to say?
[Via I4U News; image courtesy of T3]
I don't see the point, I like my ps3 how it is.
To get new buyers who thought the old one was too big or ugly and then there are those that just like to have the newest and best version. It worked with the PS2.
Agreed. Maybe they need to make the price a little "slimmer"..
why cant the people who make these amazing looking "rumor" renders of devices design the actual devices, they always look better than what the company finally ends up with...
This is honestly what I've been waiting for. I'm still a little disappointed they have kept the God-awful curve top surface but they are making progress. Will consider picking one up if the price is right.
I like my PS3. I got a slim PS1 and slim PS2. When I got my PS3 it felt like it's next gen and is built like a tank.
When consoles grow older, cost cutting and cheaper materials are used to make them. Admittedly, I got my PS3 too late for BC.
@kyle B what chu talkin bout!? that is a HORRIBLE render. no WAY sony would put the disc drive below and in the middle like that!? i mean come on, the slim systems were smaller, but the disc drives were in the same locations as their fatty brethren.
This way they'll be able to cut the price on the old model.
@Kyle: because the people making the "rumor" renders don't have to mold the exterior panels, fit the components inside, or otherwise make a manufacturable and operational product.
Fortunately, early adopters still don't have to feel bad about missing out on newer hardware because we've got BC and sony's hell bent on forcing you to buy a new PS2.
@ John
And Sony got their wish: I just replaced my launch PS2 with a new PS2. Bought a 360 too. Don't need a Blu-ray player, but do need Fallout 3 (with DLC) and access to my old games (Champions of Norrath, Tony Hawk series, and others).
@Heimbachae:
Uhm, no, the PS2 slim's drive was on the top... and the original's was a tray-loader.
I agree- the design is not bad, but they really should get rid of that ugly cover of the no-more existent SD card slots to smoothen out the lines.
The only thing Sony needs to make "slimmer" is the price. PS3 has some of the best games (including the best exclusives by far, Killzone 2 and inFamous alone this year are both 9.0 games). LOTS of people I know now say "yea I really want a PS3 but it needs to come down in price."
The only slimming Sony needs to do is the $299 price point. It's an awesome freakin system, it's just too expensive up front (even though you don't need to pay to play games online, or buy a hard drive, or a wi-fi card, or batteries, or anything else)
@Duke
It might be the newest version, but the 60GB is the best version.
60GB has features most other PS3 models don't have:
-Built in WiFi
-Built In Media Card Reader (CF, SD, MS)
-PS2 and PS1 hardware compatibility
-Quiet Operation (Compared to 40GB)
-4 USB Ports (vs 2 for other models)
-Ability to install and run 'some' PS2 and PS1 games to the hard drive
I only care if it also comes with a price cut.
Making the PS3 smaller could just lead it to have some of the problems Xbox360 has. I have both and my Xbox360 runs a lot hotter than my PS3. I can close the cabinet doors on my entertainment center with the PS3 on and it doesn't get hot at all...
@Plantinum: Spoken like a true fanboy. I REALLY have both consoles and with enterntainment console closed they both get just as hot. In fact, if the console is closed, the PS3 is just as loud as the 360. With the console open, then PS3 is definetly quieter.
@maez
he obviously is one of the lucky launch console owners that has not had a rrod yet
No my Xbox360 RROD once and I got it fixed under warranty eventually sold it because I wanted the HDMI. I then had to change it out again recently because the fans went out on it. I don't blame the build quality I can admit it's my own fault when my Xbox360 breaks especially when it being due to overheating scenario's.
Honestly it's not like I'm a PS3 fanboy and not biased to either or. I was pissed launch day of Killzone 2 when my 160 GB PS3 got the Yellow Light.
I'm not a fanboy, I'm an unbiased consumer so just because I don't say something that doesn't line up with your opinion doesn't make me a Fanboy...
XBOX LIVE ID: SIR SHAFTHARD
PSN ID: PLATINUM_SKEET
Well it seems like the only reason the PS3 is so big, because they decided to have the power supply as part of the console. They have gone external then it would be a whole lot slimmer and more appealing to the consumer.
LOL, you're right. For a huge machine with internal power supply, the PS3 runs surprisingly quiet though. I still remember when I got my 360, and balk at the huge external power supply.
Not to this consumer. External power supply = cheapass product in my book, unless it's for a portable device.
And External power supply that requires its own fan and special placement = total junk.
Yeah, lets have an external power supply, cause 360's never have any problems.
Yet even with an external power supply the xbox360 has a higher failure rate than the ps3.
All I want to see is the return of PS2 backward compatibility. With PS2s selling for $100, I don't see why Sony couldn't put the components back while keeping the PS3 prices the same. Bringing back the additional 2 USB ports would be nice too.
Yes and yes.
Let me tell u man, everyone keeps asking for the backwards compatibility but I see it pointless. I have the 60GB one and I tried playing God of War and God of War 2 on my 40" XBR3, since the game isn't full screen and I can still see the pixels I haven't touched any PS2 games on my PS3.
I agree with the PS2 backwards compatibility. I have a library of PS2 games, but would like to be able to play them on the PS3.
Taking out backwards compatibility was a huge mistake on Sony's part.
With BC, the PS3 is a clear upgrade from the PS2. It still plays all your PS2 and PS1 games, plus you get wireless controllers, remote on/off, PS3 games, Blu-ray, online gaming and the PSN store. And you don't have to keep your PS2 hooked up any more.
Without BC, there's not nearly as much reason to choose the PS3 over the 360. Neither plays PS2 games, but at least the 360 plays some XBox games.
You go from lock-in to an even playing field where you have to compete on price and features.
I always think I like the idea of backward compatibility, but I never end up using it.
Over. Rated.
Just plug in your ps2 lazy.
@m3nphls: Funny, I have both GOW and GOW2, played them on my 60GB, and they look great. You do know that GOW games support widescreen resolution, right?
As for those that against PS2 backward compatibility, obviously you don't have an extensive PS2 game library. There are still more great PS2 exclusives than PS3 exclusives.
I want backwards compatibility too... I have the 160GB model :(...
Honestly even though it's not a feature I would use much. I would like it to be there. Like the last time I remember using it on my Xbox was to play Halo 2 back when everyone was still waiting for Halo 3 to come out.
if these new ps3s included backwards compatibility with PS2, and upscales them, I would buy it.
We all saw this coming when they first showed us the PS3. They did it with the PS1. They did it with the PS2. Why not do it with the PS3.... Well at least I said it.
heck they even did it with the PSP
Maybe this will make it quieter and cooler my current 80GB PS3 is louder than I'd like.
If Sony wants my money, they'll announce a slim version for $299 (USD) due out later this year (or at E3, that would be great).
I prefer the one for the last article. You know, that system that actually have an extensive game library.
You aren't saying there's no library for the PS3 are you? Old arguments do show their age you know.
Considering that most of the PS3 library is already available to Xbox, the exclusive library is pretty bare. It's almost like buying the same console twice - the main difference is that Xbox at least have enough exclusive content to keep me interested.
So, my argument still hold as new.
Tell me when the 360 gets uncharted, valkyria chronicles, killzone 2... I could keep going on
Your argument is flawed. The only more games the 360 has are launch games which are already 3 years old and people are over and done with it. Great exclusives for both consoles, so many fanboys on both sides...
PS3 Exclusives lacking!?!?!
ROFLMAO!!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:PlayStation_3-only_games
hope it is cheaper than 400 $
The only reason I got a PS3 in the first place was because I know someone who works for Sony and gave me a discount from £425(launch price) to £360, and before anyone asks. No, they haven't told me any top secret Sony plans, and Yes, I have tried to squeeze the information out of him. So, if a new version comes out. It at least has to be faster, slimmer and cheaper. Then, I will get a juicy discount from the my Sony friend! ;)
I call BS! your so called "friend" is probably a clerk at one of the Sonystyle store so he/she wouldn't know jacksh!t about any groundbreaking news from Sony.
On the other hand, Sonystyle is one of our EPP partners and they were selling the PS3 for US $100 at one time plus certain amount of points. It didn't last a minute before all 300 units were sold.
I call BS as well. I have 2 friends who work at our local Sony Style store, and they know jack when it comes to Sony updating ANY sort of product. I went into the store several days ago inquiring about the new Alphas (a230, a330, a380) and he looked at me like I had 10 heads and pink hair.
If Sony were to price cut the PS3, the Sony Style reps or anyone who probably works in there store would be the last to know...
@Uchiha Sasuke
His friend is Naruto, jealous? No but, srly, why couldn't he have a friend that works with sony. I paid 214cad last year for my ps3 wanna know my hook up.
no
First we hear of PSP Go! I demand this model be called PS3 Stay!
Well if they make it small enough, it can be the "PS3 Stay, maybe Go!"
It looks kinda like a PS3/Wii hybrid. Lets hope the games won't get worse like they are on the Wii.
I was thinking it's more like someone at Sony dipped into the Apple IIGS / IIc design theme.
Sony should have a change of leadership.
Wasting time and resources on changing things people never wanted to change in the first place, while neglecting other MORE FREAKIN OBVIOUS changes people have been demanding for years.
Crappy leadership, that is.
i think you read this first before formualting some of these crazy talks!
http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/11/sony-ceo-howard-stringer-if-we-had-gone-with-open-technology-f/
Unless it will have a screen and would fit in a pocket, this was pretty damn pointless.
The new PS3 should be soft and cuddly, with lots of firepower! It should be full of surprises! It should need accessories! It should never stop dancing!
If Sony wants my money they'll have to have all of these features:
Slimmer, Faster, Cheaper, Quieter(even though it is very quiet already) Increased Storage Space, 4 Front USB, 2 Back USB, eSATA Port, PS2/1 Backwards Compatibility, Only Black, White and Silver(please don't go all funky carnival colours after a few years. It will be too late *cough*ColorWare*cough*), Decent Games, More Exclusive PS3 titles that use the full capacity of the Cell and RSX. Re-add the CF, MS and SD slots.
2 doors or 4?
Sony says you can keep your money.
Slimmer - fair enough with the new smaller chips
Faster - faster how? do you have an ADD, it's fast enough.
Cheaper - viable with the new smaller chips.
Quieter(even though it is very quiet already) - again, ADD much?
Increased Storage Space - it's user replaceable.
4 Front USB, 2 Back USB, eSATA Port - not a pc nor a mac.
PS2/1 Backwards Compatibility - PSN download
Only Black, White and Silver(please don't go all funky carnival colours after a few years - who made you the color Nazi?
Decent Games - check their game library before trolling, IE. Uncharted, LBP, Resistance, Killzone 2, etc.
More Exclusive PS3 titles that use the full capacity of the Cell and RSX - again stop trolling, Uncharted, Killzone 2, etc.
Re-add the CF, MS and SD slots - again not a pc.
So one of the features that you demand is for Sony not to make it in colors that other people might want, but that you won't be forced to have? Really?
So you like Sony removing features, then? I don't think so. I agree the guy list was a little excessive; however, I do think Sony should put back the features they removed. In addition, one of the biggest reasons (aside from price) some people don't want a ps3 is because it has no ps2 BC. If people want it, Sony should listen. WE PAY FOR IT, SO THEY SHOULD MEET OUR DEMANDS. SONY WANTS US TO BUY THE PS3, SO THEY SHOULD LISTEN TO THEIR CONSUMERS. Sony could sell more consoles if they put BC back into the ps3. A plethora of people are chasing down 60gb consoles. And please don't bring up "buy a ps2 argument." Some people don't like excess or something else.
So supposedly, you want the future slimmer PS3 to hold more stuff than the currently bigger system, and not overheat. So ridiculously illogical. Let me clear one major thing up here first, Sony is not going to re-add backwards compatibility to the PS3. This is true for a number of reasons, first off, putting BC back into the PS3 is like Sony admitting they were wrong, big corporations don't like to do things like that. Second, they are trying to cut costs on the system, no matter how small, that means no PS2 emulation by hardware or software that will cost development funds to implement in a smaller PS3. Keeping with the saving money theme, I'm sure there won't be any new features added to the new revision other than it being smaller, cheaper, and maybe having a new color. Third, as a Sony fan (not fanboy) it would seriously piss me off to know that I had to buy a BC-less PS3 just to have them RE-ADD IT LATER to a newer PS3. I'm sure I am not the only one that would feel this way, they could have kept BC in, but they just had to save a few bucks. I would have paid $50 more for BC in my PS3, if it meant I didn't have to have four systems plugged in to my TV. Fourth and last, this being the MOST obvious reason for no new BC support, Sony wants you to buy a new PS2, it's just that simple.
So to wrap things up, you can stop expecting a slimmer PS3 to be faster/quieter, it's quiet enough as is and fast enough, plus making it faster would add unnecessary cost. If you need more storage than the current 80gb - 160GB, replace it yourself ( if Sony doesn't remove the option to do so). The PS3 would be smaller, so why would there be more usb ports than the current PS3s, much less a eSATA port( you already have a computer, right?). Like I said before, Sony is cutting cost and reducing size, so no card readers either. The PS3 already has alot of exclusive titles that push the system pretty hard already, of course I would like to see more, but it's not like it lacking in that department. As for decent games, the PS3 has a great library of games already ( which needs more rpgs), but for better games it's the third-party developers you should throwdown with, cause the first party games by Sony are all top class.
Sony could probably create a new product category and call it PS3 elite with BC... They could probably save face and make another sku...
Most likely that thin ps3 will not had ps2 or ps1 backward capacity.
All PS3s to date have PS1 compatibility, it's just the PS2 compatibility that got lost.
Don't hold your breath.
Unless you breathe out first... 'cause then you can be slimmer.
i would buy another one in a heart beat, and then move the one in the living room to the bedroom, and use the new one for my media center, and the old one for my gaming setup in the monitor.
Does making it slimmer increase sales? I can see how you would sell more DS Lites than normal DSes since they are meant to be portable, but unless you make a PS3 cheaper, I don't see how you can attract more customers...or are people really that shallow?
I think Apple has proven it does.
I'm sorry to be so pessimistic, but i don't think Sony will announce a slimmer PS3 at E3.
They are already having trouble EARNING money on the current model. And, why would they make a skimmer model, when they still have plans for new SKU's? (160GB, uncharted bundle)
- And before you call me a Sony hater, i own a 40GB PS3 and love it. (And a PSP also :)
To reduce the cost per unit?
Don't worry, they've already debunked this myth http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=214873
Sony already came out today and stated publicly that this was a false rumor. Old news.
(The first one to offer DVR features wins for me personally)
Sony's slimmer systems never had a price drop when they came out initially, don't expect one when they do this.
Now if only they brought back the backwards compatibility.
I was planning on buying an 80g in a week or so but if they're going to release a new one i guess I'll wait. I really hope there's a price drop though
Is it going to be called PSthree?
PS Tre?
As long as they don't split the market with games requiring some added hardware functionality that old ps3 owners don't have....like the 360 with hard drives.
If they do make a slimmer version I'll probably get one just for my room, that way just because my parents want to watch a blu-ray I don't have to stop playing. That, and I have an unused HDMI port on my monitor. My PS3 is just fine right now anyways. I got a 20GB, upgraded the HDD to 160GB, no wireless but I just ran an ethernet wire to it, no card readers but I don't need them, and full hardware PS1/2 compatibility. Nothing against the 360 though, it has a few of it's own advantages, I just got a PS3 for cheaper.
Not holding my breath though, this type of thing always pops up. The concept rendering looks pretty cool if unrealistic, and personally I'm not a fan of a external power supply. For some reason I don't want to find some where to put a brick that can knock a person out just by dropping it on them.
Not again!
i want slimmer. silver would be cool too. piano black smears must become a thing of the past.
I'll buy one if it has BC, and a couple of quid cheaper, heck, I'll sell my xbox360 if they do that. Seriously.
Give me a slim "PSthree" with BC and SACD support for $300, and I'll be sporting a tremendous woody.
Engadget... Sony has already said they won't be making this rumor true http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=214873
If they're going to change the shape, most important is to get rid of the stupid football cross section.
why does it look like a wii with a grill lid attached sideways?
I've wanted a silver PS3 since E3 2005. Just make sure it still has 2.5" HDD please. I'll happily pay a hundred more for PS3 backwards compatibility, though, as well as SACD.
it looks like a longer wii...
That's what she said.
I wouldn't want a slimmer one, they just need to add a few features, like a battery, screen, WAY SMALL SIZE, oh, that sounds like a perfect PSP, but that would never happen.
This picture is a fake. It was released quite a while ago actually, maybe the rumor is true, but this is a fake picture, that's for sure. I remember it from some website, it was fan-made, he even admited it, but I don't remember when or where :/
Looks like a Wii strapped on to a PS3 faceplate, lol.
A flat top would be awesome so I can put something on the top of it.
Looks like a Wii with a yacht sail attached to it...
That Picture looks a TON like the wii
wouldnt this cause a little overheating problem