I reported just yesterday that Sony 'could' announce the PS4 a month ahead of E3. So, imagine my surprise when today I hear of conflicting reports that say that both Microsoft and Sony could announce their new systems in March. In the February edition of Game Informer's magazine, and article reads that:
We hear that both Sony and Microsoft are targeting special Apple-style press conferences to unveil their platforms near the Game Developers Conference in late March
They went on to suggest why the companies may be hesitant to announce at E3 by saying:
E3 in June may be the industry's biggest event, but both companies want to give their systems their own limelight
This would make sense, as it would allow for the companies to announce the systems around GDC and have their own limelight, but it would open up E3 as a showcase for the titles and features.
CVG have gotten in on the act and published an analysis trying to predict where and how the consoles will be announced. They predicted that the PS4 will be announced in a "Special one-off industry event, early March" while "
CVG expect the next Xbox to be revealed late in May" but that "It is also highly likely that some key aspect of its technology to be discussed at GDC in March." Of course, both of these reports have their fair share of rumour and speculation surrounding their claims, so maybe take this with a pinch of salt. While I would expect both developers to announce before E3 with elements discussed at GDC, I would be surprised if either one announced before May.