Official next-gen PlayStation Portable details leaked
Sony's PSP Go launch ruined?
The PlayStation Portable Go is... er... go, thanks to a leaked video in which a Sony executive provides a step-by-step guide to the PSP-3000’s successor.
Sony's new PSP Go: no more UMD
First up, the technical specifications. The PSP Go has a smaller screen than the PSP-3000: 3.8in down from 4.3in, helping make the latest model 43 per cent lighter.
The screen also slides upwards to reveal the gaming controls underneath. UMD disc support has – as expected – been ditched and users get 16GB of on-board Flash storage, but with the option to add more using the Memory Stick Micro memory card slot.
There's a single analogue controller stick on the keyboard, laying to rest rumours that the PSP Go would feature two of them. In terms of connectivity, the PSP Go’s set-up for both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth communications.
The 3.8in screen is smaller than previous PSP displays, but the device is lighter
Sony’s PSP Go was uncovered in a video leaked on YouTube. In the footage, John Koller, Director of Hardware Marketing for Sony Computer Entertainment America, details the new handheld’s features.
Although the original video has since been pulled, an identical version with muted audio has also been posted.
The video was shot for Qore, Sony’s interactive magazine for the PlayStation Network. It's believed the devices is due to be officially unveiled at the E3 games conference, which kicks off in Los Angeles tomorrow.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless communications
Sony doesn’t appear to have designed the PSP Go as a gaming device for on-the-go hardcore gamers, though. Why? Because Koller said that the console’s “something you play for 15 minutes and then put down”.
He also added that the PSP Go will be launched this autumn. Whether this launch timeframe includes the UK remains unclear. There's no word on pricing yet, either. ®
COMMENTS
Sony Always miss a trick
Sony have some nice MP3 players out and a superb range of phones with Ericsson. They should bring their gaming platform in line with these devices, they could put together a device to rival the itouch, based on their previous experience in the other mobile devices field.
Instead they have run out of imagination. The device looks more of a handfull and won't attract a new user base. With dropping the UMD they isolate the die hard fans and will probably fuel the second hand market more than sell new devices (which really isn't a great idea for a firm faultering the way they are).
Can they not see that Apple and Nintendo are going to ensure this device goes nowhere? (yes i'm suggesting the iphone/itouch is going to be a strong contender in the mobile gaming world. It hurts me to say it too.)
@Law
"http://www.theonion.com/content/video/sony_releases_new_stupid_piece_of"
this made me laugh you obviously bat for microsoft
@ Ry
"I think the plan for old UMD's will be easy to solve."
Perhaps you are unaware, but Sony manufacture PSP's... as such, nothing is allowed to be simple, or just work seamlessly... no need to apologise, it's an easy mistake to make, most other companies don't actually torture their customers with these sorts of mind tricks, here's a link for your education though:
http://www.theonion.com/content/video/sony_releases_new_stupid_piece_of
UMD Goodbye!
An obvious marketing leak by Sony, lets see what news they will bring us this evening at the Sony Conference.
I think the plan for old UMD's will be easy to solve.
Create a PSN ID or use your existing one.
Go to Gamestation etc... and sign in to your account using a hub.
Place each game into the hub which reads the title of the game.
Sell your games as pre owned to the store your in.
Your given a reference code to redeem on the PSN
Download the titles to a PS3 or PC - then transfer the data as and when to the PSP - EASY.
Um...
This device has a smaller screen and a more awkward layout. The only thing it has over the old ones is bluetooth. How is this progression?
I really like being able to link my psp/ps3 and remote play, but find the discrepancy between the buttons annoying. While trying not to over crowd the thing, they should definitely have a second analogue stick, and L/R2 buttons, just for consistency, and backward compatibility with all games up from ps2.
The psp should be able to double as a standard controller for play on a PS3 (albeit not as honed as the dualshock). Then it'll live up to the potential of being able to have auxiliary information spewing onto your fingers (most likely unnecessary - but given the opportunities I'm sure it would have great application and execution )
It should be a fully fledged mix between dualshock3, a touch screen and a media player(w/ DLNA). To be any less is a step in the wrong direction.
If they get this one wrong, the PSP brand is dead in the water, customers will realise and Sony will not fulfill its potential
