Sony has unveiled the specs and a possible release date on the upcoming PlayStation 3, amid rumours that Sony will release its ‘Xbox Live killer’ at the same time.
Specifications for the upcoming device include support for 1080p, a total of 512MB of RAM (including 256MB of graphic memory), a Cell processor running at 3.2GHz, two HDMI outputs, and a memory reader.
Also specified is a detachable 2.5″ HDD slot, with HDD sold separately, while SACD and Bluray Disc support are no surprise.
The page (http://www.playstation.com/products.html) also states ‘PlayStation 3 in Spring 2006’, which would indicate the console will be available in first half of 2006. However many sites, including Engadget, have reported the US/Japan launch is more likely to be in September, designed to coincide with the launch of Sony’s rumoured HUB service.
The new service, a competitor to Xbox Live, will aim to provide internet multiplayer for users of the PS3 and the PSP. According to Engadget, Sony CEO Howard Stringer wants “all media content to be available for distribution over PlayStation HUB”, making it a potential successor to Sony’s Connect service.
