Sony exiting Cell research doesn't mean they will not be using the product any longer and does not preclude future PlayStation products using the Cell processor. It just simply means they will not be an equity holder of the project. Neither Microsoft or Nintendo are funders of PowerPC research. Sony would just have to buy future Cell technology from IBM and Toshiba, rather than making any revenue by selling the chips. This is probably a good decision as few other customers have lined up to buy Cell processors.
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Sony exiting Cell research doesn't mean they will not be using the product any longer and does not preclude future PlayStation products using the Cell processor. It just simply means they will not be an equity holder of the project. Neither Microsoft or Nintendo are funders of PowerPC research. Sony would just have to buy future Cell technology from IBM and Toshiba, rather than making any revenue by selling the chips. This is probably a good decision as few other customers have lined up to buy Cell processors.