Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) PR boss David Karraker has appeared to confirm that the 60GB hard drive version of the PlayStation 3 is out of stock at internal SCEA warehouses and that once stock at retails runs out the console will no longer be available in North America.
“We no longer have any inventory in SCEA warehouses. All inventory has been purchased and shipped to retailers,” said Karraker to consumer website GamePro. “We don't have visibility as to if that is on their store shelves or in their warehouses at this time. However, based on inventory reports from our retailers, there is ample supply still left in the channel."
The 60GB version of the console saw a price cut of $100 in July to $499, which was broadly welcomed by the industry. However, confusion instantly ensued following conflicting statements from different Sony executives as to whether the price cut would be permanent and how long the 60GB version (which is also the only version of the console to still rely on hardware emulation) would be available for.
It has widely been assumed by analysts that once the 80GB model, which is currently sold at the original 60GB launch price of $599, is the only one available it too will be reduced in price. However, no such assurance has ever been given by Sony. The 60GB version of the console is still being sold in Europe, where the 80GB model is not expected to be released.
