MUMBAI:  Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) unveiled the new PlayStation3 computer entertainment system, featuring a streamlined form factor with a 120GB Hard Disk Drive (HDD).

The new PlayStation3 (PS3) system will become available in stores from 1 September, 2009, in North America, Europe/ PAL territories and Asian countries and regions at a recommended retail price (RRP) of US$299 and €299, respectively.

The system will become available in Japan on 3 September, 2009, at a RRP of 29,980 yen (including tax). With the introduction of the new PS3 system, SCE will also reduce the price of the current PS3 with 80GB HDD to a RRP of $299 from 18 August and €299 from 19 August.

Also in North America, the price of PS3 with 160GB HDD will be reduced to a RRP of $399 from 18 August .

The internal design architecture of the new PS3 system, from the main semiconductors and power supply unit to the cooling mechanism, has been completely redesigned. Compared to the very first PS3 model with 60GB HDD, the internal volume as well as its thickness and weight are trimmed down to approximately two-thirds. Furthermore, power consumption is also cut to two-thirds, helping to reduce fan noise. While inheriting the sleek body design of the original model, the form factor of the new PS3 system features a new design with textured surface finish.

The new PS3 continues to offer the cutting-edge features and functions of the current models, such as the ability to enjoy high-definition Blu-ray disc (BD) movies and games, as well as various content and services downloadable through the network. The new PS3’s storage size has increased from 80GB to 120GB, and with the extra capacity users will be able to store more games, music, photos, videos as well as various content and services available through PlayStation Network.