The next batch of PS3s will not support HD playback through the component cables (Updated)

By Ryan Fleming July 13, 2011

If you are a diehard PS3 fan with an older TV, you may want to hold onto that console for as long as possible. A new report from Kotaku claims that the new PS3s will only display HD games and movies via HDMI, not the component cables which will still be included.

If the tipster that spoke to Kotaku is correct, the replacement model for the 160GB PS3 will switch over to what is called the “K chassis,” and will ship to retailers next week. This will either mean nothing or everything to you depending on your TV.

The argument over the HD digital output of HDMI versus the analog display of component cables has raged since the formats first went head to head. Most would argue that the difference is almost negligible, while audio and video purists will almost certainly flock to the digital of HDMI. Regardless, the issue isn’t the quality of the signal, it is Sony deciding to essentially do away with one of them. New PS3 purchasers will still be able to connect their consoles via component connections, but those connections will no longer support HD playback.

While it might seem odd that Sony, after taking a beating in the public relations department following the hack-mageddon, the move may have to do with new AACS standards, which are intended to increase copyright protection on HD video. The standards are not required on devices until December of 2013, but Sony may be getting a jump on it now.

While this news may not please people with older TVs, there is one group that should be happy with the change–retailers that will be able to up-sale an HDMI cable.

Current PS3 owners will be unaffected by the change, and HD playback through component cables will remain.

Updated: Sony has spoken with Ars Technica regarding the “K Chassis.” According to the new report, the new PS3 models will still retain HD game and streaming video playback through composite cables, but blu-ray movies will require an HDMI cable. This change has been made in accord with the new AACS Standards.

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Ryan Fleming is the Gaming and Cinema Editor for Digital Trends. He joined the DT staff in 2009 after spending time covering…

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