Rumors of the PlayStation 3 Slim are coming even faster now, suggesting something is definitely brewing at Sony. The internet is alight with rumours of a planned €100 (£85) price cut on Sony’s current 80GB PS3 model across Europe to be announced at the same time at the launch of a new PS3 Slim at Germany’s GamesCon event on 18 August. The rumours follow the news that Sony is informing Japanese retailers that the 80GB PS3 model will not be shipping after 8 August.
Over in the US, Sony has cut the cost of its 160GB PlayStation 3 bundle from Amazon by $50, notes Engadget. And in the UK, WHSmiths is selling the PlayStation 3 at a discounted price to clear up space for the rumored PS3 Slim.
“Sony are looking to make a big splash at GamesCom, so we’ll see big hardware and software news coming out of their Press Conference,” said Associate Editor of PSM3, Andy Hartup.
“There’s little doubt PS3 Slim will happen at some point – PSone and PS2 went through the same treatments – and GamesCom seems like a prime time to unveil it. I wouldn’t bet against a PS3 Slim / Uncharted 2 bundle appearing this October.”
“As for the price drop of the 80GB model – that’s what potential buyers have been asking for. Sony have so far refused to budge on the price, but with Christmas around the corner, I’m certain we’ll see a price cut – if not now – before the end of the year.”
With a 3 hour slot assigned to Sony’s Press Conference at GamesCon on August 18th 2009, something huge is certainly expected. As usual, Sony has declined to comment on the rumors and speculation. I guess we’ll just have to wait a few more weeks to see what happens.