An internal retail memo leaked from BestBuy could provide a clue about the US future of PS3 80 GB version. 

The memo, that was disclosed by PS3 Fanboy, states: : "The 80GB version of the PS3 is going closeout and won't be replaced at this time. It will come off the planogram on Jan. 28. The 60GB version should already be gone from stores. Only the 40GB version of PS3 will be sold in Best Buy stores at this time."

While some media sources rushed to speculate that the model will be discontinued due to the poor sales, it’s not clear how many 80 GB PS3s where sold by Sony in US.

However, the 80 GB PS3 was already removed from European and Japanese market. Currently Sony is focusing on the 40 GB version of PS3, that was introduced worldwide in the second half of 2007.

But is Sony indeed is considering to cease the production of 80 GB PS3, this could be a problem, because is the last model which is compatible with PS2 titles, through software emulation.

However, SCEA refused to comment about the rumors and speculations. "We're currently working with two SKUs in the market, and we don't see that changing," a Sony representative said for Ars Technica.

On the other hand, there are rumors that Sony could slash again the price of 40 GB PS3, from $399 to $299. Earlier this month, in Japan, Sony discontinued the PlayStation 3 models featuring 20Gb and 60Gb hard drives, in favor of a 40Gb model that's cheaper than both. The new cost-effective console is priced at ¥39,980 ($364.50).

There are also rumors that Sony is considering a new version, with a bigger hard drive, to replace the 80 GB model.

Last week it was revealed that Sony is preparing the launch of White Ceramic version of PS3 in North America.

Sony’s PS3 has finished last year far behind its competitors. Sony sold only 2.56 million PS3s in US, compared with 6.29 million Wiis and 4.62 million Xbox 360s.