right now I think it will be 400-500 dollar/euros, but I'd be happy if it ends up being less expensive than that

A specific example would be the lack of L2/R2 triggers so it can be used to replace those in a game like call of duty to toss a flashbang or grenade.  It can be used in a number of ways, but the most obvious is to make up for physical buttons that the ngp lacks and offer an alternative method of input to some things that can be done with other buttons present on the ngp.  Give it some time, you'll see.

It is obvious, I dont think Sony is dumb enough to give the NGP a higher price...They know that the PS3 have had a difficult run because of that single issue, the price. They couldnt call themselves a serious company if they repeat the same mistake. 

I hope they have some bundles or something for $300.

I think it will be more than 300$.

A first price for 350$ without 3G

You're thinking of the PS1 vs. the Saturn.

The rear touch panel won't just be for mapping virtual buttons; it will allow user interfaces that work like regular touch screen input without having to obscure the display with your fingers.

That's actually one of the issues with iPhone games on its relatively small screen; when you set up virtual analog pads and buttons, the player's fingers generally don't break contact with the screen and always cover a good portion of the display (and graphics).

Even without having even seen the device in action, I already have a pretty good idea of exactly how it will work and how developers will use it for player input.

And incidentally, that rear touch panel adds $30 max to the manufacturing cost (which is the price of a 9.7" iPad touch screen interface) . Most likely less. I don't know why so many people are grossly overestimating manufacturing costs.

And $999.99 was the initial GameStop price holder listing. They specifically changed it to $299 for pre-orders after, which should be a *tiny* hint.

Completely agree, while the ngp may be a beast of a portable, that doesnt necessarily mean that sony hasnt figured out ways to bring production costs well within a reasonable enough range to slap a 300 dollar price tag on it and call it good. 

SCE will most likely release the MSRP at E3; they pretty much have to for a product launching Dec/Jan 2011/2012.

All I have to say about that is if they announce $299 for the base model, I will be completely unsurprised and everyone who believes they're made out of melted down gold bricks at a manufacturing cost of $500 per unit will never say another word about it again.

If anyone wanted to spread rumors about sky high production costs, it should actually be Sony. That way consumers would actually believe they were buying a $500 portable for a bargain $300.

Yeah I cant wait for e3 this year (like usual).  they will for sure announce pricing details then, along with details on the different sku's etc.