PlayStation 3 Hardware Revision Reduces Weight, Power Consumption

Sony will introduce a new revision to its PlayStation 3 hardware in Japan later this month that reduces the system's weight and power output, according to the company. The new CECH-3000B model weighs 2.6kg (5.7 lbs.) -- down from the previous model's 3kg (6.6 lbs.) -- has a 320GB hard drive, and consumes 200 watts of power, down from 230. The 3000B has the same accessories, hard drive size and 34,980 yen ($436) price point as the previous model, the 2500B, meaning the latter is likely being phased out. Though a lower-cost 160GB version of the PlayStation 3 is currently available in the region, Sony has not announced a hardware revision for it, though Andriasang reports that a 160GB limited edition promoting Namco Bandai's upcoming Tales of Xillia will use the revised hardware. An alleged retailer briefed on the new model has also reported changes to the power and eject buttons and the internal LED lights. Sony's U.S. PlayStation division did not immediately respond to our request for information on this revision's availability outside of Japan.