FCC documents show new Sony PS3 model on its way
With the slow but steady disappearance of the 60GB PlayStation 3 from store shelves, the effective entry-price for Sony’s newest console is once again $599 for the 80GB bundle. It’s unlikely that Sony will head into the holiday season at the same price point as it did last year, which is why industry analysts are predicting an upcoming price drop for the 80GB model.
Even at $499, the PlayStation 3 would still be priced well above its prime competitor – the Xbox 360 Premium at $349. Earlier this month, a report surfaced saying that Sony will introduce yet another PlayStation 3 iteration that could potentially occupy the $399 level.
The $399 model is speculated to come with a 40GB hard drive with no pack-in title. Sony would be expected to carry the 80GB model at $499 with MotorStorm or other title. Furthermore, Sony may sweeten the deal by bundling with either one or both SKUs with Spider-Man 3 on Blu-ray Disc.
A recent FCC filing by Sony may have revealed several new details about an upcoming PlayStation 3 model. Although the majority of technical details and photographs have been blocked from the public’s view at Sony’s request, the information available is able to confirm that the upcoming model – designated CECHG01 – is indeed a PlayStation 3 at the core.
Technologies described in the filing include Bluetooth, 802.11b/g WiFi, along with a number of I/O ports. The FCC report states that only two USB ports were tested (current PS3s have four ports) and there were no mention of memory card reader tests. Since the FCC is a radio test, it may not have required extensive testing of select PS3 features.
Earlier this month, Sony enlisted the help of top computer manufacturer Foxconn to manufacture low-cost PlayStation 3. The FCC filing could well be the first sign of the new product development agreement between the two companies.
source dailytech
