New PSP to Debut in Japan w/ Enhanced LCD [Video]

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc (SCE) has announced that the "PSP-3000," a new version of PSP, will be launched in Japan Oct 16, 2008.

The PSP-3000 is a minor upgrade version with, for example, a built-in microphone equipped as a standard feature and an enhanced image quality of the LCD panel. The price is ¥19,800, the same as the previous model's. It will be available in three colors, black, white and silver.

SCE disclosed the PSP-3000 to the press for the first time in Japan. Its LCD panel features an NTSC color range of 85%, up from 53% of the previous model's LCD panel. Its contrast ratio and response speed were also improved from 400:1 to 2,000:1 and from 30ms to 8ms, respectively. Furthermore, its visibility was boosted by reducing reflective light, according to SCE.

Three kinds of software packages will be available. Game titles to be included in those packages are "Patapon 2 Donchaka," "Mobile Suit Gundam: Gundam vs Gundam" and "Dissidia Final Fantasy." The packages will be released in series from November 2008.

Fortified network capability

Another highlight targeting the year-end sale season is the enhanced network capability. SCE will enable the PSP to directly access to its "PlayStation Network Store" by fall 2008. As a result, users will be able to download game titles and special videos using only the PSP. Currently, users have to use the PS3 or a PC to access the content on PlayStation Store.

For titles supporting "ad hoc mode," which connects multiple PSPs over a wireless ad hoc network, SCE will start a service that allows distant users to play those titles together using the PS3's wireless LAN.

[Video] Presentation of the new PSP (Japanese)

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