Rumour: NGP entry model tech specs slashed

The base model of Sony's new portable will reportedly have half the RAM previously suggested.

IndustryGamers' translation of a 01net report has Sony making drastic cuts to the system in order to compete with 3DS pricing.

The version of the NGP without 3G connectivity is said to have had its RAM allotment reduced from 512MB to just 256MB.

Additionally, the expected 16GB internal flash memory is supposed to have been dropped, in favour of an external system - much like the current PSP's reliance on memory cards.

Former details of the NGP's planned system specifications have been gleaned largely from industry leaks, with Sony apparently cagey about revealing specifics.

At GDC, the NGP's probable games format was detailed, a two to four GB flash card.

Sony's most recent announcement had the NGP due by the end of the year, despite concerns the launch could be pushed back to 2012 outside Japan. A release date and price is due for reveal at E3.