In an interview with CNET news, Microsoft's Bill Gates has made clear his company's feelings on Sony's PS3.

"I wouldn't change positions with them in a million years. I mean, we know what it's like to be a year late. We feel great about the position that we're in. And, of course, they're going to sell a lot in Japan, " said Gates. ”You know, Sony can make 80,000 bricks, and people would buy them. This Christmas, the story is: XBox 360 is going to sell super-well, and they'll sell the rounding error amounts they can make.”

The PS3 launched in the US last weekend and was marred by a number of violent scenes as consumers battled to get their hands on one of the 400,000 units available. There is huge demand for the PS3, but according to reports, for each 60 GB model sold at the retail price of $599, Sony loses an estimated $241.35; and for each 20 GB model sold for $499, they lose $306.85. The PS3 will undoubtedly sell well, but it's going to take some time before Sony start seeing the profits roll in. In the meanwhile, Gates & Co. can be safe in the knowledge that the Xbox 360 has a huge head start over their rivals.

Source : CNET