Japan will be getting a new PS3 model this September. The new PS3, with the model number “CECH-3000B”, will be lighter (5.7 lb. compared to the 6.6 lb. current PS3 Slim) and will consume less power (200W, while the current Slim uses 230W). There are a few small aesthetic changes as well, including the power and eject buttons.
Unfortunately, the new model is not without its drawbacks, as Blu-ray video playback will be limited to 480i if displayed through anything other than an HDMI cable, which will of course not be included with the console. If you don’t have HDMI, then you’ll be stuck watching your HD movies at SD resolution.
The new PS3 model will be available for a retail price of 34,980 yen for a 320GB console: the same price as the current 320GB PS3. A 160GB version of the new model will also be included in the Tales of Xillia bundle releasing September 8th for 37,980 yen. No word yet on when or if the new PS3 will hit outside Japan.
The Xillia one is prettyyyy. I wish I were rich because I would so buy it in a heartbeat. ;__;