Sony teases PS Vita Slim release in U.S. and Europe

Last year, Sony launched a slimmer model of the PlayStation Vita, featuring "a more streamlined form factor," in Japan. And now, if an invitation to an exclusive briefing is any indication, the company could be gearing up to announce the PS Vita Slim's release in the United States and Europe as well.

Sony has sent out an invitation to the media, which reads: "Following the biggest launch in PlayStation history, join us for an introduction to the slimmest."

The PS Vita Slim is reportedly 20 percent slimmer and 15 percent lighter than the original Vita. Much to consumer displeasure, the original Vita's 5-inch OLED screen has been replaced with an LCD screen; however, Sony claims the new LCD screen produces an image quality that is "as high as that of the OLED panel." 

There's also a possibility that Sony could be introducing the western release of the PlayStation Vita TV, another product that was launch in Japan only. This small device allows owners to play Vita games on the television with the use of the DualShock 3 controller, while also offering video streaming services such as Hulu. 

Given the success of the PlayStation 4, it only makes sense for Sony to try and push the sales of its handheld system, given that the two work in tandem via Remote Play. For those unfamiliar, Remote Play allows PS3/PS4 owners to play games directly on the Vita, freeing up the television for other uses. With the PS4's launch already leading to an increase in Vita sales, perhaps a slimmer (maybe more affordable) model could attract a few more adopters.

The Sony PlayStation event will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2014 at 9:00am. We'll be sure to keep you posted with what we learn.