40GB PS3 + 80GB price cut confirmed for the US [Update]

Bet you didn't see this coming. We certainly didn't (that's sarcasm, by the way). SCEA have now confirmed that the 40GB PS3 will be coming to America for only $400 on November the 2nd. Not only that, but the 80GB model with have its price slashed from $600 to $500.

Of course, the 40GB will "suffer" the same "drawbacks" as it does in Europe and Japan. Namely, a lack of backwards compatability, fewer USB ports and no memory card readers. Expect a surge in the sales of the 80GB system. We're just confused as to why Sony is waiting until November 2nd to get this launched. It's almost been out for a week over in Europe.

[Update 1: Price-reduced 80GB systems are now available at GameStop. Also available at amazon.com]
[Update 2: Images of the 40GB box have been uploaded. Check past the break.]