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All systems Go for Sony's handheld mini console
Mark Prigg, Science and Technology Correspondent03.06.09
Sony has launched a portable games console designed to take on Nintendo and Apple.
The new PSP Go will be able to download games and films through a built-in wireless connection.
Half the size and weight of the original PSP console, it is the first games machine on the market to rely on downloading games rather than buying cartridges or discs.
The device features 16GB of flash memory and a slide-out keypad similar to a mobile phone.
Players will be able to download games, expected to be the same as their current cost, from Sony's site. The firm is also expected to make more films and music available via the site in a bid to take on Apple's iPod.
Sony Computer Entertainment president Kaz Hirai said: "We want to attract people interested in digital entertainment as well as just games. There will be more content that is easier to get on your PSP. It's entertainment everywhere, and it's built for people who live a more digital lifestyle.
"It's designed to bring all kinds of content to the PSP."
In a bid to take on the iPod, Sony also said it is developing mood- sensing software for the PSP that can tailor musical playlists based on the user's mood. Called Sense Me, the software is expected to launch later this year.
The PSP Go, which goes on sale on 1 October, will cost about £250.
Experts say the move to abandon traditional game cartridges is a major step forward for the industry.
"This is the first console that is completely reliant on digital," said Jane Douglas of website MSN.
"They are going further than Nintendo by removing physical media altogether, which could make them more flexible."
Review: Sony PSP Go
Screen quality is excellent and Sony's new portable games look superb. Owners of Sony's PS3 console can also use the Go as a remote controller for their PS3 - a neat feature. Crucially, Sony has also made getting video and music on the device easier.
It's without doubt the most advanced handheld console on the market and is much more stylish than Sony's previous portable model. For video, it's also great, with a clear, crisp screen. However, the music-playing software lets it down, meaning Sony has some way to go if it wants to take on the iPod. But for playing games on the Tube, it's a winner.
3/5
