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In an effort to accelerate PSP sales Sony will launch a new Base Model black PSP, which will be available in Europe from March 22 at only 199 Euro (approximately £140). US gamers will have to pay $199 from the end of March and Japan will get a Ceramic White Base model retailing for 19,800 yen from April 15. For this cheaper price buyers will only get the PSP console, battery pack and charger. That’s it – no Memory Stick will be included. Seeing as this is pretty much an essential purchase, a further £20 should be added to the cost of the unit.
Sony has also announced some new software updates for the handheld with the next updates to include Macromedia Flash player and extended RSS functionality, allowing users to playback and save internet radio and movies. Sony will also be starting a download service, offering popular PlayStation titles from yesteryear. No price structure has been announced, but a Memory Stick will of course be required to store the downloaded titles.
The PSP is also set to receive some new accessories in the shape of a camera and GPS receiver, to launch in the autumn. The camera will allow Eye Toy motion tracking technology to be used in PSP games, plus allow for video voice-over-IP (basically video chat). The GPS receiver will not only help you out when on the road, but will also be used in games, starting with the next instalment of Hot Shots Golf.
It’s pretty safe to assume that we’ll be hearing a lot more on the downloadable PlayStation games and new accessories at E3 in May.
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