As of 1 August 2006, E³ has become invitation-only, meaning that instead of around 60,000 people at E³ there will only be 5,000. The reason for this change is to allow invited press members to have more in-depth conversations with game developers. Essentially, the E³ "Trade Show" has been cancelled, replaced with a much lower-key and inaccessible event or series of events.

"The new E3 Expo will take shape over the next several months. As currently envisioned, it will still take place in Los Angeles, described by ESA as a “great and supportive partner helping to build E3.” It will focus on press events and small meetings with media, retail, development, and other key sectors. While there will be opportunities for game demonstrations, E3Expo 2007 will not feature the large trade show environment of previous years."