*All models can decode Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio to be output as LPCM. Output of the raw undecoded stream is limited to slim models only.[15]
The PlayStation 3 was built around the custom-designed Cell Broadband Engine processor, co-developed with IBM and Toshiba. SCE president Ken Kutaragi envisioned the console as a supercomputer for the living room, capable of handling complex multimedia tasks.[16][17] It was the first console to use the Blu-ray disc as its primary storage medium,[18] the first to be equipped with an HDMI port, and the first capable of outputting games in 1080p (Full HD) resolution.[19] It also launched alongside the PlayStation Network online service and supported Remote Play connectivity with the PlayStation Portable and PlayStation Vita handheld consoles.[20][21][22] In September 2009, Sony released the PlayStation 3 Slim, which removed hardware support for PlayStation 2 games (though limited software-based emulation remained) and introduced a smaller, more energy-efficient design. A further revision, the Super Slim, was released in late 2012, offering additional refinements to the console's form factor.
At launch, the PS3 received a mixed reception due to its high price point—US$599 (equivalent to $930 in 2024) for the 60 GB model and $499 (equivalent to $780 in 2024) for the 20 GB model—along with its complex architecture and limited game library. However, it was praised for its Blu-ray playback capabilities and "untapped potential". The reception improved over time and improvements to its game catalog, the introduction of the Slim model, and price reductions helped the PS3 recover commercially.[23] Ultimately, it sold 87.4 million units worldwide, surpassing the Xbox 360 and becoming the eighth best-selling console of all time. As of early 2019,[update] nearly 1 billion Playstation 3 games have been sold.[24]
The PlayStation 4 was released in November 2013 as the PS3's successor. Sony began phasing out the PlayStation 3 within two years.[b] Shipments ended in most regions by 2016,[c] with final production continuing for the Japanese market until May 29, 2017.[d]
^a PAL region PlayStation 3 20GB version was announced at €499 but on September 6, 2006, Sony announced that launch would be delayed until March 2007, because of a shortage of materials used in the Blu-ray drive. "PlayStation 3 Euro launch delayed". BBC. September 6, 2006. Archived from the original on March 7, 2008. Retrieved January 14, 2008.
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