An internet report is claiming to have several details on a redesigned PSP that Sony's been heavily rumored to have in production.
Kotaku, which says it's received its information on the new version of PSP from "several sources close to Sony," kicks off explaining that the redesigned PSP will be "much slimmer" compared to the original version thanks to a new screen "that will deliver an ultra-crisp image but take up far less space."
The new screen is also responsible for extending battery life up to four times longer than in the original PSP model.
It's said the redesigned PSP still uses a UMD drive, but it's a faster version and 8GB of internal flash memory in the new version of PSP will speed up load times and gameplay. Plus, the original's buttons have been revamped and the D-pad overhauled - the new D-pad is similar to the D-pad on a PS3 controller, according to Kotaku.
Apparently, Sony is still deciding on whether to include a built-in camera in the redesigned PSP and weighing up the resulting bumping up of the cost of the end product if the camera's included against its benefit to games players. The company hopes to come in at a sub-$170 price point.
The site goes on to say that the redesigned PSP will be officially unveiled at this year's E3 in July, and talks about an August/September retail release. Stay tuned.
Sony, for its part, is still refusing to comment on what it calls "rumors and speculation." Which history has taught us is absolutely no indication that this information isn't true.
June 11, 2007
