27w ago - A few weeks ago we reported that on the rumor that PlayStation 4 developer kits were shipping and based on the AMD A10, and now PSM3's German edition (via TheGNet) has shared some new PS4 (Orbis) rumor details below.

To quote from Gameranx.com (linked above): "First off, the magazine states that the PS4 won't even be named the PS4. While it will still have the "PlayStation" name attached to it, there won't be a number 4 next to it.

The reason is that the number 4 is pronounced "Shi" in Japan and in Chinese. "Shi" also has the same sound as "death" so that makes it a very unlucky number for a lot of people in the world. It's so reviled that "many hospitals in Japan have therefore no room with the number 4 or even a fourth floor - similar to a few high-rise buildings in the West no 13th Floor have."

The PS4's codename, which is now known as Orbis, could even be part of the final name. For the rest of the details, read on below (via NeoGAF).

Second Games of the first generation will look like the high-end PC demos on watchdogs and Star Wars 1313 or Square...

29w ago - Following up on the previous PlayStation 4 rumors, today VG247 (linked above) reports that Sony's PlayStation 4 (PS4) developer kits are now shipping and utilize the AMD A10 series as a base.

Below are the details, to quote: "Developers are currently taking receipt of a new PlayStation 4 dev kit, VG247 has been told today, with a final version slated to appear in January. Yes, it'll have Blu-ray. No, it isn't being made in Japan.

Multiple sources have confirmed to VG247 today that a new version of the Orbis kit is now shipping to developers, and that it's housed in a normal PC case.

There are to be four versions of the dev kit, we were told. A previous version was essentially just a graphics card. The version shipping now is a "modified PC," and the third version, appearing in January, will be close to final spec. A final version will be delivered to developers "next summer".

Some US developers attended a "disclosure meeting" at Sony's offices this week, with a further meeting to take place in the coming weeks. The purpose of the meeting is for Sony to tell studios what the machine is designed to do, to detail hardware and to show a set of presentations.

51w ago - Update: It's now confirmed that Sony has acquired Gaikai for $380 million with the official press release below.

Press Release: Sony Computer Entertainment to Acquire Gaikai Inc., a Leading Interactive Cloud Gaming Company

SCE to Build a Cloud Service Bringing Gaikai's Cloud Based-Streaming Technologies into Its Network Business

TOKYO, July 2, 2012 PRNewswire - Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) today announced that it entered into a definitive agreement on June 30, 2012 (Japan Time) to acquire Gaikai Inc., the world's leading interactive cloud-based gaming company, for approximately USD 380 million.

Through the acquisition, SCE will establish a new cloud service, ensuring that it continues to provide users with truly innovative and immersive interactive entertainment experiences.

"By combining Gaikai's resources including its technological strength and engineering talent with SCE's extensive game platform knowledge and experience, SCE will provide users with unparalleled cloud entertainment experiences," said Andrew House, President and Group CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

51w ago - Following up on our previous article, today MCVUK (linked above) reports that according to their sources Sony is indeed close to acquiring a high-profile cloud gaming firm.

To quote: "In a move that will rock the next generation of console gaming, Sony is close to agreeing an acquisition of a high profile cloud gaming firm, MCV understands.

It was reported earlier this week that Sony was to reveal a partnership with a cloud gaming firm - specifically either OnLive or Gaikai - at E3 next week.

Subsequent chatter had seemingly calmed the rumours, suggesting that the proposed agreement was to do with Sony streaming TV services, and not consoles.

However, MCV understands that the deal is far more extensive than anyone could have predicted and will see Sony fully acquire one of the two firms. The deal, our source says, "is close to being signed".

The acquisition has implications for all parts of Sony's business, both in the consumer tech and console divisions.

Although work on PS4 is already well underway, Sony is very likely keen on bringing its PlayStation gaming content to non-console owners - a move finally made possible...

52w ago - Today VG247.com (linked above) reports that according to a rumor Sony is expected to unveil cloud gaming for PS3, PS Vita and other PlayStation branded devices at E3 2012.

Although further details are scarce at the moment, the potential cloud gaming deal is likely to be with either Gaikai or OnLive allowing streamed games on PlayStation branded hardware.

To quote: "VG247 has learned that Sony is to announce a cloud gaming deal with either Gaikai or OnLive at E3, apparently allowing streamed games on PlayStation hardware.

Details are light, but the news expected to be announced in the Sony press conference on June 4."

For those curious, this year's E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) will be held from June 5-7, 2012 at the Los Angeles Convention center.