Sony reveals sleeker, lower-cost PS2

Sony today revealed its promised new, slimmer PlayStation 2 that will help phase out the older console and appeal to budget gamers. Known internally as the SCPH-90000, the game system is closer in design to the slim PS2 but uses smaller components to dramatically reduce the weight and the space inside; the whole system weighs less than 1.6 pounds but can fit the AC adapter into the main case rather than use an external brick. This simplifies bringing the new PlayStation to a friend's house and encourages using a vertical stand, Sony says.

The console launches first in Sony's home territory of Japan and ships in black, silver, and white colors for the equivalent of $140 after tax on November 22nd. Color-matching stands should be available for $13. An American release is expected and may cross the $99 barrier when available, though a conversion of the new PS2 may not appear before 2008 and may come with a more limited range of colors.