It’s been in the rumor mill for weeks now that Sony was getting ready to introduce a new, smaller version of the PS2 under the name PSTwo in much the same way that they did with the PSOne. Turns out the name change isn’t happening—at least not until the release of the PS3—but the change to a smaller, sexier design is very much true:
While inheriting the basic functions and design philosophy of the current PlayStation 2 (SCPH-50000), the internal design architecture of the new model has been completely overhauled, resulting in a slimmer and more lightweight form. Internal volume has been reduced by 75 percent, overall weight has been halved, and thickness trimmed down to 2.8 cm (thickness of current model is 7.8 cm). Its size is almost as small as a hardcover book, making it easier to carry around and enjoy games and DVD videos anytime, anywhere.
Equipped with an integrated Ethernet port for network gaming, the new PlayStation 2 sets new standards in the fusion of design and functionality and will enable the company to maintain market momentum as it expands its online console gaming community, the largest in North America with more than 1.4 million users. Approximately 40 percent of North American PlayStation 2 online gamers use dial-up connections and to satisfy this base, the North American model is equipped with both Ethernet and modem ports.
The only question I have is where the HD expansion is supposed to go on this new model as there doesn’t appear to be any spot set aside for it. I suppose they could release an update HD that would come as an external unit which connects via the USB or FireWire ports, but it’s also possible they may be giving up on the idea of selling many HD units here in the states. More pictures in the extended entry.
Found via Engadget.
Course, now that I think about it, I keep forgetting I need to actually go use a cleaning cd on it… Boo for my forgetful memory…
Does it run Linux?