Sony invents back-compat device

Sony Japan is trying to patent an invention that would solve backwards compatibility problems on PS3.

The device - a new generation to previous generation console adapter - is external and has its own processor, DVD encoder/emulator, sound chip and graphics chip. It connects to what appears to be a PS3 (memory cards, joypads and discs are all shown beside it) via a cable.

Eurogamer's Digital Foundry blog is investigating further.

But don't get your hopes up, as this is only an application for a patent - nobody's actually said yes, as as Siliconera pointed out.

Sony Europe gave Eurogamer a flat "no comment."

Perhaps this invention may be intended for use with the new PSP2.

The 60GB launch PS3 was natively backwards compatible and could play PS2 games - a feature Sony eradicated from future models. The company has instead favoured Blu-ray conversions of the console's most popular titles: God of War, Sly and maybe ICO and Shadow of the Colossus - that's the word around the proverbial water-cooler.

http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/20...-compat-device