New Gaming Consoles Due Soon

As expected, several of the video game heavyweights made big announcements at the recent E3 convention in Los Angeles. Nintendo and Sony have just announced plans for new gaming hardware:

• Sony is readying the launch of its next gen handheld gaming system, the PlayStation Vita. The new device is due in the fall, with a price tag of $249 - $299 (the latter with 3G connectivity via AT&T). It comes with a 5-inch touch screen front display and a multi-touch pad on the rear.
• Sony is also planning on a new 3D console gaming system with a 24-inch HD LCD display. The system will retail for $499, including 3D glasses, which will cost $69 when purchased separately.
• Nintendo announced the new Wii U system, a mini-tablet design with a touchscreen controller. Nintendo says it will have a 1080p HD display, with a 6.2-inch touchscreen. Their system, however, will not be available until sometime in 2012.