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Sony's 12 GB flash-based PlayStation 3 is now available for purchase from retailers in the U.S. and Canada, such as Best Buy and Future Shop, for $199.99.
Best Buy is also offering a bundle consisting of the 12GB PS3 with Uncharted 3 and The Last of Us for $259.98. For comparison, the online retailer lists the Legacy Bundle featuring the 500 GB SuperSlim PS3 console, Gran Turismo 5 and inFamous 2 for $299.99.
Earlier this month, an entry on Canadian retailer Future Shop's website briefly listed the new 12 GB hardware as available, before being removed from the site. Engadget had also received a photo illustrating a U.S.-based Kmart warning not to sell the units until Aug. 18.
The 12 GB PS3 was revealed by Sony at its Tokyo Game Show press conference last year, alongside its 500 GB SuperSlim PS3 console. The flash-based console, touted by Sony as a "family-friendly" model, can be expanded with a standalone 250GB HDD accessory. PAL territories and Japan received the flash-based PS3 in October; however, a North American release wasn't mentioned at the time.
