It was just a couple of days ago when we learned about SCEE's plans of releasing a new set of high-range AV cables to be used with the PlayStation 3 and other Sony gadgets. Not to be outdone, Sony Computer Entertainment America sent in a press release today containing its first party lineup packages of USB 2.0 and video cable.

Judging from how these cables are presented, it seems that Sony is further pushing the compatibility of the PS3 and the PlayStation Portable. Check the new packages after the jump!

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) confirmed today that the recent price cut for the PlayStation 3 60GB unit is a prelude to phasing out the said model by the end of this year.

As a result of this, the 40GB SKU will be the only remaining model available for European gamers when supplies run out. One spokesperson from SCEE explained:

We announced our reduced offering on the 60GB model last week. We’re looking to sell our remaining 60GB stock, after which the 40GB model will be the only SKU available in Europe.

We anticipate that the 60GB stock should be available until Christmas, but of course it depends on how quickly it sells.

We are not certain if this is a good move from Sony. The 40GB model comes with just two USB 2.0 ports and the multi-memory card port was removed. Aside from this, the biggest difference this build sports is the lack of backwards compatibility for PlayStation 2 video game titles.

Following the announcement of 40 GB Playstation 3s for the UK, Sony Computer Entertainment Australia has also stated that they will be launching the same model on October 11. It will be going for a recommended retail price of AUS$ 699 or about US$ 629.

Like other PS3s, it works as a Blu-Ray Disc player and is still compatible with both Standard Definition and High Definition TVs up to 1080p. However, this new model is no longer backward compatible with PlayStation 2 titles and doesn't have a multi-memory card port. It also comes with two less USB 2.0 ports than older units.

Judging from the console's features, the 40 GB PlayStation 3 looks to to be geared towards people who watch movies regularly but also want the option to occasionally play a couple of games. We'll have to wait and see if this strategy drives up consumer interest for the product.

Thanks to Regan for the tip!

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) has finally given official confirmation that the rumored 40GB PlayStation 3 SKU does indeed exist. What's more, it's launching in Europe next week.

Just like the rumors said, it won't have backwards compatibility with PlayStation 2 titles. The new model features two USB 2.0 ports rather than four and no longer has the multi memory card port.

The new PS3 SKU will be available October 10 for €399 (US$ 565) across all SCEE territories. Keep checking back here for more news.

Genesys Logic Incorporated (GLI) might just have become the harbinger of good news to PS3 fans the world over when the company revealed that it is positive about its shipments in 2007.

As a USB hub controller and card reader supplier for Sony's PS3, GLI's positive outlook could mean that we'll be seeing huge leaps in the number of PS3s shipped this year.

GLI supplies combo card reader controller and USB 2.0 hub ICs for the high-end PS3 model and supplies USB hub ICs for the entry-level PS3.

Sony has now risen as the largest customer of GLI after sales of the PS3 began during the end of 2006, industry sources said.

GLI didn't reveal a concrete shipment forecast, so we're still left in the dark as to how many PS3s Sony plans to manufacture during the first quarter of the year. According to Digitimes, industry sources are saying that Sony's PS3 will be the major revenue filler for GLI in the first quarter of 2007.

Ever wondered what the PlayStation 3 console looks like, up close and personal? You may observe that most images of the PS3 found in the web are angled in such a way that you only see the console as a whole, but how about the little details on its casing such as its sockets and ports? Well look no further as these images will relay more details about the upcoming Sony console in a closer perspective.

As previously announced, the PS3 will be supporting HDMI connections, which means that users will be able to enjoy sharper colors and higher frame rates, hence the HDMI port featured in one of the photos. The console will also be able to support various audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and 7.1 digital audio.

Another thing to note is the fact that the 60GB version of the console will be able to use Memory Sticks, Compact Flash or SD and MMC cards, slots for which are also seen in the photos that we have. This would enable you to save data from your favorite games. For connectivity and communication, the PS3 also sports four USB ports and an Ethernet port, not to mention a Bluetooth EDR.

As for the power supply, it will be built into the console and for that purpose, a 3-pin IEC connector can be located at the base.

Please be reminded that the console shown herein is not yet the final version, but these images should give you an idea of what the retail units would look like once they are released to the public.