Sony has announced a slimmer and lighter PlayStation 3. The redesigned console will go on sale in the UK on September 1 with a price tag of £249.99.

The new system has shed weight in almost every area, with internal elements such as the main semiconductors, power supply unit and cooling mechanism completely redesigned.

Its power consumption has also been significantly cut, which should help reduce fan noise.

Key stats of the new PlayStation 3

Size reduced by 32%. New dimensions approximately 290 × 65 × 290mm (width × height × length).
Weight reduced by 36%. New weight approximately 3.2kg.
Power consumption reduced by 34%, now approximately 250W.
The new PlayStation 3 will come with one wireless Dualshock 3 controller, an AC power cord, AV cable and USB cable. A separately sold vertical stand will enable you to perch your PS3 upright.

The current PlayStation 3 is also to benefit from a price drop. Its new price will be the same as that of its slimmer cousin, but we wouldn't be surprised if the chunkier version was soon discounted further by retailers.

Take a look at photos of the new slim and light PlayStation 3.