Tech Shout!

Sony has finally launched its much-awaited next generation gaming console PlayStation 3 (PS3) in Japan today. Long queues of people eagerly waited to set their hands and eyes on the gaming console.

The demand was so high that the console sold out from most retailing outlets by 7 am in the morning. Sony is encountering issues in the manufacturing of this console due to shortage of components.

Ken Kutaragi, the head of Sony’s game unit known as the “father of the PlayStation,” said he was thrilled by the reception to the PS3.

“It’s a bit expensive, but I really wanted it,” said Hirotoshi Iwadate, a 23-year-old hospital worker, clutching a big bag with his new PS3 after standing in line since 10 p.m. Friday. “I came here straight from work.”

Sony has managed to deliver just around 100,000 PlayStation 3 machines for the debut in Japan. They would soon introduce it in the US market. European launch is slated for early next year.

Prices vary by retailer, but the more expensive model, with a 60-gigabyte drive, sells in Japan for about $510.

Sony Playstation 3 is powered with a brand new processor technology named Cell co developed by Sony, Toshiba and IBM. It also comes loaded with a Blu-Ray drive which is competing with Toshiba’s HD DVD technology.