Sony's Hiroshi Kawano Believes Vita Has Its Own Place In The Market.

Kawano considers that the devices are different.

Kawano believes that the Nintendo 3DS has a different look, target audience and price-point. All true. Moreover Kawano believes that smartphones are designed with networking features first, and gaming second. Kawano points out that the Vita was designed with this philosophy in reverse, meaning it's the ideal device for someone looking for gaming first.

Kawano's not incorrect in what he's saying, but we think he's marginalising the market somewhat. Some smartphone users may be satisfied with mobile phone games, while there's surely some overlap between potential Vita and 3DS purchasers — no matter how unique the devices.

But Kawano believes the Vita's sales potential is strong regardless of competition. He told Reuters that he believes Sony will have shipped 500,000 pieces of hardware in Japan by the end of 2011. A lofty estimate considering the device is not set to go on sale until December 17th.

Urgh. We can't wait.

[source au.gamespot.com]