Sony PS3 Slim unveiled at GamesCom

Sony has confirmed a new version of the PlayStation 3 -- the PS3 Slim -- and it'll go on sale worldwide in the first week of September.

It was shown off by Sony at its keynote event at the GamesCom gaming conference over in Germany this evening. The new console is 32 per cent smaller than the current PS3 and 36 per cent lighter. Its slimmer, more refined chassis is coated with a matte finish instead of gloss.

Inside is a 120GB hard disk, but all other specifications seem to be the same as the current 80GB model. Sony, however, says it has completely redesigned the technology on the inside.

"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," Sony explains, "achieving a much slimmer and lighter body. Furthermore, power consumption is also cut to two-thirds."

Both the current PS3, and the new PS3 Slim, will get firmware updates on 1 September, bringing the console's software to version 3.0. We assume the Slim already has it installed, mind. This update will include support for Sony's Bravia Sync technology, which will allow the PS3 to be controlled with a Bravia TV's remote control.

The PS3 Slim will cost €299 (about £255), and in fact so will the existing 80GB PlayStation 3, which is getting a price drop.

Official Sony photos over the page, but watch this space for further details.

Update: Eagle-eyed CNET UK reader Playerm pointed out that Amazon.co.uk has listed the 120GB PS3 Slim for £249.99, with a 4 September release date. 

Sony's official photograph of the PS3 Slim.

The front of the PS3 Slim.

The left-hand side.

The ports around the back.