As the E3 2011 expo in Los Angeles starts getting into its stride, a number of major companies have started sharing their new wares with the world, with Sony being one of the first.

Taking to the stage, Jack Tretton, CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment of America, firstly tackled the recent PlayStation Network hacks and outages. The company once again expressed regret for the disruption with Tretton saying, “We apologize for any anxiety we have caused you.”

In addition to new gaming titles and 3D display options Sony also finally unveiled solid, official details on its upcoming handheld, the PlayStation Vita. According to the Wall Street Journal, the Nintendo 3DS contender will launch before the end of the year, at least in the US.

Sony gave no specific dates, but it was revealed that the handheld will be priced at $249 (R1677) for a Wi-Fi only version, with a 3G and Wi-Fi version retailing for R299 (R2013). Please note that this is rough currency conversion and does not reflect the final retail price of the Vita in SA.

A couple of Vita titles were demonstrated at the show, including Naughty Dog's new mobile Uncharted title as well as the popular Mod Nation Racers. Capcom is also said to be working on a Street Fighter title for the new device, and Irrational Games is developing a Bioshock title.

In addition to the PlayStation Vita, the company also showcased new TVs which includes a 24” PlayStation-branded 3D display as well as stand-alone 3D glasses. “We're going to break the mold on 3D pricing this year and make it affordable,” Tretton said.

As far as PS3 gaming is concerned, the company teased a number of new releases at the show, including Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception, Resistance 3, Bioshock Infinite and Dust 514.