If you are a future potential PS3 owner, this Q/A may provide you with some questions that you are interested in.

Judging by the Q/A it is apparent that Sony is keen on marketing the Playstation 3 as a computer system, not just a video game system.

General
- PS3 is a computer system
- PS3 is one product with different configuration
- PS3 launch date : Nov 11 (Japan), Nov 17 (US), March 2007 (Europe)
- PS3 price : 20GB : JPY 59,800, USD499, EUR499 (incl. VAT) / 60GB : JPY Open, USD599, EUR599 (incl. VAT) (More info)

Business Strategy
Q1. Why will Sony launch two models with different specs for PS3 ?
A1. PS3 is a computer system and as such, various configurations can be considered. In future, larger HDD may be required for larger content to be saved on PS3. Considering the fact that, nowadays, network connectivity is spreading within the homes, we have decided to introduce a configuration with basic ports. However, these ports, excluding HDMI, are expandable with adaptors available on the market.

Q2. How can users connect PS3 to TV without HDMI output ?
A2. PS3 supports most displays via the AV multi output. Visual quality through AV multi output is comparable to that through HDMI.

Q3. Do you have two color variations of black and silver for two different models ?
A3. This model comes in one color (clear black) only. There may be color variations in the future.

Q4. What is the initial launch quantity for PS3 ?
A4. 2 million units will be shipped worldwide at the launch timing (for the first 3 weeks), cumulative 4 million units by the end of December and cumulative 6 million by the end of March 2007 (we do not disclose the breakdown by region).

Q5. Will you launch the PS3 in the Asian region at the same timing ?
A5. Yes.

Q6. What is the breakdown of the production shipment figures for each model ?
A6. We will decide the breakdown according to the market situation.

Q7. Are you planning to launch another model which has different HDD or interface in the future ?
A7. Like PCs, other configuration with the different HDD capacity and I/O can be considered in the future.

Q8. Where will you start manufacturing PS3 ?
A8. We will start manufacturing in Japan and China simultaneously (we don’t disclose the names of manufacturing companies).

Q9. When will you start manufacturing PS3 ?
A9. We will start assembly from summer. Manufacturing of the main semiconductors has already started.

Q10. MS’s Xbox360 was launched a year ago and has a head start. How do you feel about it ?
A10. We have set the best launch timing for PS3.

Q11. How is the PS3 network service going to be ? Will you also start the service from day one ? What are the differences between Xbox Live and PS3 network services ?
A11. Apart from providing basic features and functions, the most important element is content and services. Downloading music in SingStar, purchasing or exchanging game data as we demonstrated at E3 press conference and many other new ways of enjoyment will be provided.

Q12. Will the network service be charged ?
A12. Basic services available free for current PCs will be free of charge but content and specific services will be charged from the beginning.

Q13. Are the specifications and design final ?
A13. Very close to final.