The few 20 G.B. currently in market are the last of their kind.
"At launch, we offered two separate models of PLAYSTATION 3 to meet the diverse needs and interests of our PlayStation fan base," explained Dave Karraker, senior director of corporate communications for Sony Computer Entertainment of America
. "Initial retail demand in North America was upwards of ninety percent in favor of the 60GB sku, so we manufactured and shipped-in accordingly.Due to the overwhelming demand for the 60GB model from both retailers and consumers, we have ceased offering the 20GB model here in North America," he confirmed.
It is estimated that Sony loses $306 per 20GB PS3 in contrast to losing just $241 per 60GB unit. The 60GB version features built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and flash memory card reader which the 20GB lacks.
Sony has confirmed that 20GB PS3s currently available in market will be sold for at $499 until the supply is depleted. Furthermore, 20GB model will always be 100% supported with software and services, since all PS3s have the same basic architecture "unlike if MSFT were to stop selling their Core system, which would allow publishers to actually use their hard drive for gaming purposes, leaving the Core user out in the cold", commented Karraker.
