Sony has denied recent rumors that it is scrapping an essential feature of its PlayStation 3 console, saying that the new model of the device will only require an HDMI connection for Blu-ray playback, in order to comply to new standards. Sony is preparing to deploy a brand new version of its PlayStation 3 home console, codenamed CECH-3000, which has, as we learned a few weeks ago, a lighter weight and a reduced power consumption. Earlier this week, however, an alarming change was also rumored to be made with the new device, as Sony was recommending in an internal memo to GameStop employees to urge customers to buy an HDMI cable when getting a new PS3, in order to be able to enjoy their games or movies at a high-definition resolution. This seemingly hinted that the new PS3s weren't able to display HD resolutions through the component cable that is bundled with every device, as opposed to existing versions of the console. Sony has now released a formal statement, via ArsTechnica, which states that the new CECH-3000 PS3 only requires an HDMI connection if users want to enjoy Blu-ray disc movies at a high-definition resolution. "The new CECH-3000 series PS3 requires HDMI only for BD movie output in HD, in compliance with AACS standards," the company explained. "PS3 continues to support component output for HD gaming and streaming content." The Advanced Access Content System is a standardized set of rules made by and for the video industry, which now states that full high-definition resolutions need to be limited to HDMI and DVI cables that support the HDCP protection system. Starting with 2014, all new Blu-ray players are restricted from having component ports, if they want to be in compliance with the AACS standards, and the PlayStation 3 is no exception. Basically, if you're going to buy a new PlayStation 3 console in the near future, make sure to get an HDMI cable if you want to enjoy a high-definition experience, both for gaming and movie watching.