Sony posts Skype-packing PSP firmware update
Go!Messenger teaser included too
Today’s the day that Skype finally comes to the PlayStation Portable (PSP), along with a teaser for the forthcoming Go!Messenger application.
Skype comes packaged within a firmware update, version 3.90, which Sony claimed transforms the console into a “highly cost effective and accessible portable communications device”.
However, Skype’s only available for use by owners of the slim’n’light PSP and not the older, fatter incarnation of the handheld console.
In addition to the firmware update, users will also need to register for a Skype account and have a headset that’s suitable for use with the PSP slim’n’light.
Sony has also added an interactive information icon for Go!Messenger via the firmware update, but users won’t be able to use the IM and video-chat app until February. The application was developed as part of a Sony partnership with British Telecom.
The PSP firmware update can be download on a PC and copied to the handheld console using a Memory Stick, or you can download it directly using the console’s Wi-Fi connection. Sony's PSP website's yet to be updated with details of version 3.90, but hopefully the electronics giant will get around to it at some point today.
Sony’s also created a handy instructional Skype video - should you get a bit confused about how to use the application on the console.
COMMENTS
@Anonymous Coward
You obviously don't own a PSP, based on your comments, as everyone else's PSP load firmware from a chared battery just fine.
Go troll somewhere else...
But what if you get a call while using your psp to watch porn in the toilet
As the point of most modern technology is make porn more accessible to men, didn't sony realise what might hapen if you get a skype call while using your psp to watch porn over wireless whilst locked in the toilet. Presumably sony flavour skype takes advantage of the psp cam. Sorry in advance Mum, Dad, friends and colleagues.
Where's my Skype for Atari Lynx update?
I got one of the first PSPs. Man this thing has been a royal disappointment. The graphics are pretty bad (worse than XBOX gen 1) the controls are pretty bad, and worse, the games are pretty bad. Oh and battery life is... pretty bad. Also, I can't believe it requires a wall plug to do a software update. The first game I bought just before getting on an airplane. Lo and behold I couldn't play it because even though I charged the PSP all night, the game required a system update, and it wouldn't run it without the plug. There was no warning on the package of the game that it might require an A/C adapter just to play it.
I miss my Atari Lynx.
there's a reason why it's v2 only
Unlike the apple software updates, skype requires the extra ram and the physical audio jack to work with skype.
They're not holding back because of software but because you psp phat owners don't have the actual hardware.
Would you be demanding video on your old 3rd gen ipod because the newer ones can? no, because your screen can't render video!
For a change, I'd give sony a little slack on this one because there was more to the psp slim than just trimming the size, read the specs before complaining about not getting software that you can't run on your hardware!
oh ffs...
...then never cease to be amazed forever, Jason.
Not sure about the idea of this, but i'll roll with it. Don't really see the reason for upgrading just for a Skype connection :o/ Remote Controlling a PS3 is enough for me :o)
