Sony: HDMI required for HD video only, not games on new PS3 models

Yesterday, a Gamestop document posted on the net implied Sony was getting rid of high-definition content through the use of component cables with newer PS3 models. However, Sony has told Ars Technica that is not exactly true.

According to the Gamestop memo posted by Kotaku, "The 'K' systems will come with an AV cable, however, if you want to play a game or watch a movie in high definition you must use an HDMI cable." The memo also told store employees to sell HDMI cables to customers purchasing a PS3 console.

In response to this, Sony told Ars: "The new CECH-3000 series PS3 requires HDMI only for BD movie output in HD, in compliance with AACS standards. PS3 continues to support component output for HD gaming and streaming content."

Here is how Ars explains it, which is much better than we ever could: "The Advanced Access Content System is a standard for DRM, and states that full high-definition video resolutions are limited to HDMI and DVI cables, which support HDCP. Starting in 2014, new Blu-ray players won't be able to include component ports at all in order to be in compliance with AACS standards."

It looks like this will only affect customers still using older hi-def TVs or those using component cables due to having a minimal number of HDMI connections for all their items.

Time to invest in some HDMI splitters, we reckon.