Source: See below.

　　What we heard: Last month, a flurry of retailer listings out of Europe spoiled the surprise of the PlayStation 3 Slim unveiling at GamesCom. Now, new reports from the EU are bolstering speculation that Sony may be readying a 250GB version of the currently 120GB console. A May filing with the Federal Communications Commission showed that Sony tested both a 120GB (model #CECH-2001A) and a 250GB (model #CECH-2001B) version of the console under the cover of a dummy corporation, Sand Dollar Enterprise.

　　Today, UK-based Eurogamer and its Spanish sister site cited unnamed sources as saying the 250GB PS3 could launch as early as next month across the Atlantic. Both reports say the console will be offered as part of limited edition bundles, much like the still-available (and now just $349) 160GB Uncharted: Among Thieves bundle. In the UK, the super-sized console is pegged as coming with either Assassin's Creed II, Gran Turismo 5, or Uncharted 2: Among Thieves for £299.99 ($495, €340). In Spain, Eurogamer's sources claim the console will be bundled with FIFA 10 for €350 ($509, £307). Currently, the 120GB PS3 sells for £249.99 and €299.99 in Europe, and $299.99 in the US. There are no bundle deals in either territory.

　　The official story: Sony Computer Entertainment America reps deferred to their European colleagues, who had not responded as of press time.

　　Bogus or not bogus?: Cautiously not bogus. Last month's Euro retailer reports proved reliable, and the FCC document all but proves that Sony intends to put a 250GB PS3 into production. However, the introduction of another model one month after the PS3 Slim went on sale seems a bit soon. Further suspicion is raised by the inclusion of Gran Turismo 5, which still does not have a firm launch date.