The device, which is half the size and wait of the original PSP console, features 16GB of flash memory, allowing users to store thousands of songs, photos and games on their console. It also has a slide-out control pad, and integrated Bluetooth, as well as a memory card slot to expand its storage limit.
They will also be able to download games and films from Sony’s PlayStation Store using the PSP Go’s built-in Wi-Fi capabilities.
Sony confirmed that the PSP Go would not have a slot for its proprietary UMD game disks, meaning users won’t be able to play old PSP games on it. However, Sony said that the PSP Go would be offered in addition to the existing PSP console, the slim, light PSP 3000, which is still compatible with UMD disks.
The PSP Go, which goes on sale on October 1, will cost around $250 US.
Sony hopes the new-look, ultra-portable device will appeal to casual gamers as well as Sony’s traditional fan base. Other handheld consoles, such as the Nintendo DS, have proved very popular with women and older gamers.
The PSP Go also pits Sony directly against Apple’s iPod touch device, which can play music and video, as well as surf the internet, and is building a reputation as a foremost mobile gaming platform, with a number of large publishers, including Electronic Arts, developing titles specifically for Apple’s gadget.
