Why is the PS3 slim such a big deal to everyone?

[kn]

Taz! said:

SamuelRSmith said:
I don't think it's the slim PS3 itself, just that it means big cuts in costs for the manufacturing of the PS3, and thus, a greater chance of a price-cut.

This

I would have to strongly disagree... Yes, a die shrink of the cell nets more processors per wafer and a lower cost, but a complete redesign and a shrink is expensive.  It pays off more in the long run but miniaturization of existing technology is pretty much always MORE expensive in the short run unless the materials that are being saved are precious.  I don't think plastic is that pricey, lol.  I would think the redesign to a slim would STOP a pricecut from happening until they recoup the redesign costs and then we would see a price cut...