PSP Firmware version 3.90 has popped up, packing the much anticipated Skype application for your portable (except for those in Japan).

Skype is a voice-over-IP (VOIP) client that works a bit like MSN, but specialises in voice transfer; with it you can contact any other PSP or PC-based Skype users via the internet for free.

Strangely, Skype only works on PSP Slim versions, not the original fat ones.

Bear in mind this a US firmware release which, although the firmware will work fine on UK PSPs, you'll need to grab a third-party PSP headset to use Skype because the official headset hasn't been released (or even announced) in the UK.

The new firmware also expands the PSP's support of PSN titles, so it can play all those PSone games that Sony will uploaded to the online store... eventually.

Wireless people should be able to download the update via the usual option on the PSP. If not, you can download it via your PC. The official PSP site hasn't updated yet, but with a quick search you should be able to find the update on one of the many PSP homebrew sites.

Courtesy of CVG.

Jan 30, 2008