PS3 launch delay looking likely

Sony may be ready to admit that the launch of its next-gen console, PlayStation 3, will be delayed.

An unnamed Sony spokesperson has admitted that problems finalising the specs of Blu-ray - the new media format that PS3 will use - could well cause the console to miss its predicted May launch.

Rumours have been circulating for some time about a possible PS3 delay but Sony has always remained adamant that it would be ready for a spring release.

"Sony has not begun taking orders yet, which means it would be difficult for the company to begin sales in May," said Hirokazu Hamamura, president of Japanese games magazine Famitsu.

If this is true it should be interesting to see how long Sony holds out before making an official announcement about a change of date.

PlayStation 3 is still awaiting an official UK release date