Sony confirms PS one

[06.08.00] » $150, portable, network functionality, one-third the size of the original PlayStation--and there's gonna be a screen.

   Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. has announced a cosmetic redesign of the PlayStation console with an emphasis on mobile computer networking: the "PS one." The drastic redesign creates a new system 1/3rd the size of the original PlayStation and with 99% of the functionality--the only feature missing is a link cable port. Although the PS one is portable, it contains a multi-AV out for use with large televisions. Next spring, Sony will release a special LCD monitor for use with the PS one, allowing the system to be taken easily from room to room or played in the car. As the system (currently) has no portable power supply, either internal or external, its mobile prospects are limited. Portable gaming isn't much fun if you always have to be within plug-in distance of an AC power source; hopefully, some sort of battery pack will be announced soon.

   Concurrent with the PS one confirmation, Sony announced a special adapter cable that connects to PlayStation products (PlayStation, PS one, and PlayStation 2) and lets users go online via a mobile phone. The cable will be available this winter and, according to Sony, permit users to "download information, entertainment content and software programs in addition to exchanging data with other users." While this may seem odd, more people in Japan go online via their cell phones than any other communications medium, so cell phone compatibility is a feature many new consoles are eager to implement.

   The DualShock controller has also undergone a slight redesign, with a more rounded connector. It is currently unknown if the redesign will feature the "stickier" DualShock 2 analog sticks. The PS one will retail for 15,000 yen, or about $150 USD. It goes on sale July 7th, the same day that Square is launching Final Fantasy IX. Perhaps Sony hopes that a hardware launch opposite a must-have piece of software will improve sales. A U.S. and European release appears to be set for this fall.

PS one

Outline:

Basic Specifications and Features

Available Accessories