Sony Tablet P Gets Strong 3400mAh Extended Battery From Mugen Power - New 3400mAh battery extends the life of Sony Tablet P by 10%.
Mugen Power (mugen-power-batteries.com) the manufacturer of high-capacity batteries for handheld devices, today announces the new HLI-SGPT211SL Mugen Power 3400mAh Extended Battery for Sony Tablet P which extends the time consumers can use this popular device. The battery is immediately available from Mugen Power Batteries with free shipping worldwide.
Designed to provide maximum mobile freedom, Mugen Power 3400mAh (milliamp hour) Lithium-Ion battery extends the life of the Sony Tablet P by 10% delivering more power than the stock 3080mAh battery. This impressive battery performance allows consumers, especially those who are often on the move, to use the device longer. The new battery is fully compatible with the Sony Tablet P and fits well into Sony Tablet P.
As well as delivering longer life, the new battery is also exceptionally reliable. Like other Mugen batteries, the Mugen 3400mAh Extended Battery for Sony Tablet P has undergone vigorous QA testing to ensure the highest quality and lowest return rate. The battery is also in compliance with the CE requirements.
"Sony Tablet P owners are often reported to complain about short battery life of the device. We worked hard on this project and managed to fit additional 320mAh capacity into same size as original battery. Our solution gives customers added battery life to stay connected longer without recharges and make more with the smartphone than ever before," says Nikolai Lebedovsky, marketing manager at eTrade Asia Ltd.
Sony Announces New Innovative Powerful DSLRs, B&H Photo First to Release Camera Information - Sony has announced new innovative DSLR cameras that feature fixed translucent mirrors, enabling exceptionally high-definition stills and video with zero image black-out, full-time phase-detection autofocus for stills and video, with full manual focus and exposure overrides.
Sony has announced three unique 24.3MP APS-C format cameras: the Sony alpha SLT-A77, SLT-A65 and NEX-7. Sony’s new alpha SLT-A77 and SLT-A65 are second-generation DSLRs that feature fixed translucent mirrors, which makes it possible to shoot exceptionally high-definition stills and video with zero image black-out, full-time phase-detection autofocus for stills and video, with full manual focus and exposure overrides. B&H Photo is the first to release camera information.
The top gun among the three cameras is the Sony alpha SLT-A77, a burly, weatherproof magnesium-alloy DSLR that—in addition to JPEG and RAW capture (up to 12 frames per second)—can also capture HD AVCHD 60p/60i/24p video, including uninterrupted sequences of up to 29 minutes in length. Other features found on the SLT-A77 include a 19-point / 11-cross AF system; ISO sensitivity levels up to 16,000; a built-in GPS for geotagging; Auto HDR and Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO); dual memory card slots (SD/SDHC/SDXC & Memory Stick PRO Duo & PRO-HG Duo); 1200-zone evaluative exposure metering; shutter-lag times as short as 0.05 second; and up to 530 exposures per charge.
The viewing system on Sony’s new top-gun SLT consists of a 3.0”, 921,000-dot hi-def, three-way tilt/swivel LCD that maintains alignment of the LCD and lens; and the world’s first 2,359,000-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF), which enables clarity that simply blows away any other EVF in its class.
This is Latest High End Smartphones in comparison with all the Main Brands
Samsung Galaxy S II (I9100) is latest from the Company Samsung available for a Price: $699.99 / Rs. 32,890 and the top most one in the newest smartphones with all best and most features that is not present in any recently released Cell Phones
Features
Type - Super AMOLED Plus capacitive touchscreen, 16M colors
Size - 480 x 800 pixels, 4.3 inches
Dimensions - 125.3 x 66.1 x 8.5 mm
Weight - 116 g
Memory - 16GB/32GB storage, 1 GB RAM, up to 32GB
Camera - Primary 8 MP, 3264x2448 pixels
Video - Yes, 1080p@30fps, Secondary Yes, 2 MP
OS - Android OS, v2.3 (Gingerbread)
CPU - Dual-core 1.2GHz ARM Cortex-A9 proccessor, Mali-400MP GPU, Orion chipset
Battery - Stand-by Up to 710 h (2G) / Up to 610 h (3G)
Talk time Up to 18 h 20 min (2G) / Up to 8 h 40 min (3G)
Reality Synthesizer GPU Professionally Reballed by PSR, Inc. Now Reballing the Sony PS3 RSX-GPU - The Sony PS3 has several issues that are directly related to the Reality Synthesizer, Graphics Processing Unit commonly referred to as the RSX chip or the GPU. The most common of many problems is the YLOD, Red Blinking light, No video and Video Pixilation. The only repair solution is to replace or ReBall the RSX-GPU.
The most common of the many problems is the YLOD, Red Blinking light, No video and Video Pixilation. The only repair solution is to replace or ReBall the RSX-GPU.
There are dozens of repair shops that work on the Sony PS3 units, but they are not ReBalling the RSX-GPU, they are reflowing the board in an infrared oven or simply heating the chip. This is a band-aid covering the real problem and will never be reliable. The Solder balls under the chip must be removed and replaced with new. The chip can then be soldered back onto it's host motherboard. This is a very delicate and time-consuming process that takes specialized equipment and weeks of technical training for even the most seasoned veteran.
Sony PSP-3000 Black Friday Bundle with Little Big Planet, Karate Kid, 1GB memory stick - PSP has a vibrant widescreen LCD screen and built-in microphone! Play thrilling games, movies, music, connect to the Internet, and more. With the best portable games, and a dazzling LCD screen, everywhere just got better!
The Sony PlayStation Portable 3000 LittleBigPlanet / Karate Kid bundle brings together the latest revision in the PlayStation Portable (PSP) hardware line, with the PSP version of one of the most creative games of all-time and a reimagined cinematic classic. The bundle includes both a "Piano Black" PSP-3000 system, a copy of LittleBigPlanet for PSP and a UMD formatted copy of the 2010 remake of The Karate Kid staring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith. Toss in a 1 GB PRO Duo Memory Stick, as well as the media rich features of the PSP-3000, including Wi-Fi access to the Internet and the PlayStation Store¹, music, movie and Skype functionality, a built-in microphone, a brighter screen and the ability to play games and movies in digital and UMD format and you have a handheld gaming bundle suited to any player.
Features:
* Enjoy the high end multimedia support for games, movies, music, video and the Internet, as well as microphone functionality used in certain games and Skype calls
* A Piano Black version of the PSP-3000
* A copy of LittleBigPlanet for PSP in UMD format
* A UMD formatted copy of the 2010 remake version of The Karate Kid staring Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith
* A 1 GB PRO DUO memory stick used for saving content downloaded to your PSP from the PlayStation Store and other locations …»Continue Reading!
Black Sony Ericsson Handsets Are the Most Popular Colour with Facebook Fans - Sony Ericsson has revealed that black handsets are the most popular with Facebook fans. The number of entries received for competitions hosted on Sony Ericsson's global page is repeatedly highest in weeks where either a Cosmic Black camera phone from the Vivaz range or a Sensuous Black handset from the Xperia™ collection is the prize on offer.
The competitions, which can be entered by Facebook users that like Sony Ericsson's Facebook page have become increasingly popular since they started running on a weekly basis in April 2010. One of the most recent competitions launched on October 5 asked 'which women's tennis star won the singles final at the 2010 US Open?'. Over 14,000 people, the highest ever number of entrants in just one week, submitted the correct answer, Kim Clijsters, for their chance to win a Sensuous Black X10 mini.
Trends of colours have changed dramatically since the advent of mobile phones, which were predominantly available in black. Silver phones became extremely popular for a time and more recently, handsets like the Xperia X10 Android phone in Luster White have been treated as having a very contemporary appearance.
Sunflex USA to Distribute a Full Line of snakebyte™ Accessories for PlayStation®Move - Sunflex USA will be the exclusive distributor of the new snakebyte™ Move line for Playstation®Move.
The line includes the first third-party Move Motion Controller, Move Navigation Controller and Camera, which are compatible with all Sony PS3™ products and third-party PS3™ peripherals. To keep up with PS3™ firmware updates, snakebyte™ has equipped the controllers with built-in USB ports so users can easily receive firmware updates via USB.
On the heels of the European announcement yesterday, Sunflex USA, the exclusive U.S. distributor of the video gaming brand snakebyte™ and FINAL FANTASY® XIV controller, announces that they will distribute the new line of snakebyte™ accessories for PlayStation®Move. The line includes a Move Motion Controller, Move Navigation Controller and Snake-Eye Camera, which are compatible with all Sony PS3™ products and third-party PS3™ peripherals. …»Continue Reading!
Sony Ericsson Launches Foursquare Page for Sony Ericsson Tennis - Sony Ericsson has recently launched a Foursquare page for Sony Ericsson Tennis fans. By following Sony Ericsson Tennis on Foursquare, fans can unlock tips and information about women's tennis and the WTA. The page was launched in late October and announced on the Sony Ericsson Facebook page.
Foursquare is an application that encourages people to explore new locations and rewards people with virtual badges and even discounts or special offers. Foursquare engages with mobile customers and those on the go who like to share what they are doing. Customers are rewarded for their loyalty by checking in. Used as a fan engagement channel, Foursquare also enables fans to check in at their favorite sporting events where they can share tips about their experience and read feedback to see what others say.
The WTA and Sony Ericsson Tennis' Foursquare page will be offering exclusive tips for and around the 56 WTA tournaments each year. Recently Li Na, Ana Ivanovic and Daniela Hantuchova recommended the tip "Try the Pevonia Hand Treatments at the spa" at Nikko Bali Resort and Spa, while they were in Indonesia for the 2010 Commonwealth Bank Tournament of Champions. Future rewards will also include the opportunity to get VIP treatment at key events such as the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami, Florida.
Android is The Best Development Platform, Says Sony Ericsson - Android, the open source mobile application operating system, is the best platform for brands to choose as it is already favoured by large numbers of developers and it is now expanding into further countries at a rapid rate, according to Sony Ericsson.
Plenty of organisations have chosen to develop their applications on Android and, as stated by telecom research firm Ovum, the platform is poised for tremendous growth over the next couple of years. In June 2010, Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google said that Android is getting 160,000 new users per day and at the end of September 2010 Android announced that developers from 20 more countries can sell paid apps on Android Market and users in 18 additional countries will be able to purchase paid apps from Android Market by mid-October.
Developers are giving preference to Android due to a number of technology related reasons but one of the main benefits to the system is that it is open source and therefore free. This is especially advantageous for amateur developers who want to try their hand at turning an application idea into a reality that other people can download from the Android Market. Additionally, other platforms insist on approving app products
Sony Ericsson Facebook page Offers Sony Ericsson Mobile Phones and Accessories as Competitions Prizes: Sony Ericsson has begun to introduce accessories into its competition programme alongside mobile phone handsets as prizes on its global Facebook page.
Fans of the global Sony Ericsson Facebook page have welcomed the new addition to the competition programme as Sony Ericsson recently introduced accessories as winning prizes alongside popular handsets for their weekly competitions. Competitions have always proved to be hugely popular with fans of the page since the introduction of the dedicated competitions tab, and the addition of an accessory to the latest competition was no exception.
Most recently, fans were given the opportunity to win a white MW600 headset alongside a white Luster White Xperia™ X10 handset, which was the first time in which a mobile phone accessory was offered as a competition prize alongside a handset. The competition proved to be a huge success with the fans and Sony Ericsson is now considering the inclusion of accessories as
Sony Ericsson Release Xperia™ X10 How-To Video Guides - Sony Ericsson has revealed a range of how-to videos through the official Sony Ericsson YouTube channel.
Sony Ericsson has revealed a range of how-to videos through the official Sony Ericsson YouTube channel.
A number of these videos have recently been uploaded to the official channel. The videos are designed to help users to maximise the use of their Sony Ericsson Xperia™ X10 handsets. The videos offer step-by-step guides that are easy to understand so that all users can act upon the information presented in each video.
One such video is designed to help users extend the battery life on their handsets. The video's outset explains a number of different features included within the Xperia™ X10 which may use battery power at a greater rate than normal, such as social media applications or email services. Users are then instructed how they may turn off or alter certain features of these applications, such as the way they automatically connect to the internet to upgrade, to thereby help save battery life.
Other video topics include guides to help upgrade software, transfer contacts, and transferring media. All videos are presented in the same format to make it as easy as possible for users to understand.
Ben Padley, Head of Digital and CRM for Sony Ericsson, said: "This range of how-to videos will help Sony Ericsson fans maximise the use of their Xperia™ X10 handsets. Sony Ericsson is dedicated to helping fans achieve the most from their phones
PS3 BREAK Modchip - Revolutionary Brand-New PS3 Game Crack Product: Innovation PS3 Break Modchip for PS3 Game - Support PS3 Upgraded - The PS3 Break Modchip, a revolutionary brand-new crack product after R4, N5, DSTT, R4i, DSTTi, are being sold worldwide now at TOMTOP.com Online Shop.
The PS3 BREAK Modchip, a revolutionary brand-new crack product after R4, N5, DSTT, R4i, DSTTi, are being sold worldwide now at TOMTOP.com. PS3 Break Modchip is powerful to break through all PS3 barriers, perfectly supports all games. People can find PS3 Modchip at China Electronics Wholesale website. The PS3 Break Modchip is currently the only Modchip on the market for the PS3 and it allows for instant gameplay of backed up games. Whether users choose to backup games onto their PS3 or onto an external hard drive, be sure they will work anytime and anywhere when using the one and only PS3 Break Modchip.
PS3 Break Modchip Features:
1. Upgradeable hardware firmware thoroughly.
2. The key “Upgrade” for software upgrading and avoids to be blocked by SONY. Users can also upgrade the updated software through computer.
3. Reading speed will be 2 times faster and it makes users to play more smoothly.
4. Games can be copied and saved to internal or external hard disk, in this way, the expensive blue-ray driver and disc can be abandoned.
5. Plug and play USB port, the installation will be finished in a few seconds.
6. Homebrew software is supported.
7. Simple and clear illustrations will guide you to install step by step.
8. PS3 Break is compatible with all FAT and slim model.
The PS3 Modchip is also the only Modchip that is fully USB and follows an easy to use …»Continue Reading!
Sony PlayStation collaborates with MUBI to enhance film viewing on PS3: Sony PlayStation and MUBI are developing a service where PS3 users have a wide and diverse range of films to choose and watch directly from the console.
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe [SCEE] has announced a partnership with online film cinematheque MUBI, to bring to PlayStation®3 (PS3™) a new service that will introduce PS3 owners to a world of independent, international and classic cinema.
Later this year, PS3 users will have access to a treasure trove of celluloid curated by experts - so that even non-experts can enjoy what might otherwise take a lifetime to discover. MUBI will offer more than 300 films at launch from directors from Audiard to Zeferelli; and they're all going to be available to stream directly to users' PS3s.
PS3 users will need to download the free MUBI application from PlayStation Store. They can then open it up and start watching. Users can find festival gems, classics, famous independent releases and art-house flicks, or discover the work of world-famous directors like the Coen Brothers and Tarantino alongside Latin American directors and restored shorts from international archives. Furthermore, users can share their recommendations and ideas with friends in the PlayStation MUBI
Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Mini and HTC Wildfire compact Android OS SmartPhones handsets Available online at Tech SuperStore eXpansys: eXpansys expands its portfolio of compact smartphones with two well priced additions: The new Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 Mini and HTC Wildfire compact Android OS smartphones have arrived at online tech superstore eXpansys.
eXpansys are now taking orders for these highly anticipated handsets, while the Xperia X10 Mini will begin shipping from today, the Wildfire will be heading to customers from the 26 July.
Both handsets offer a suite of Google™ mobile applications including Google Search™, Google Maps™, Google Mail™ and YouTube™ are also integrated onto the device. Plus users have access to thousands of apps and widgets from Android Market™.
Anthony Catterson, CEO eXpansys UK commented: "We're extremely pleased to be broadening our expansive range of Android handsets. Consumers have recently seen some great new 4" screen offerings, so we're now excited to be complimenting these with a range of smartphones that will …»Continue Reading!
Sony Ericsson today announced the expansion of its carrier channels in the U.S. to include wireless leader T-Mobile USA, starting with the launch of the TM506 in early September. Sony Ericsson will now reach more than 31 million wireless subscribers through this partnership. The TM506, Sony Ericsson’s first handset supporting T-Mobile’s AWS spectrum (1700/2100), is a compact and stylish clamshell phone that delivers an exceptional Web experience in an eye-catching design.
Style and elegance
With an all around eye catching design, the TM506 was created for on-the-go consumers who want to express personal style with a feature-rich handset fully loaded for a multimedia experience. Users can reflect their personal fashion sense, choosing between Chrome with Amber or Emerald highlights with a sleek ebony gloss. Compact power
The TM506 proves that good things come in small packages. Its compact design fits into any pocket, purse or briefcase for consumers on the move. An outer display allows users to glance at the caller ID without having to open the phone, and the compact handset is packed with 3G download speeds for faster access (in select markets) to media and content viewing anytime, anywhere. Users can store their favorite tracks and share music with their friends using the removable Memory Stick Micro™ (M2™). Plus, it's easy to keep up with the latest news and weather information with customizable Web feeds.
Connect without limits
Users can capture and share special moments as photos or video clips with a 2.0 megapixel camera with My Album, slide show and video blogging capability. Stereo Bluetooth® connectivity allows hands-free wireless calls, and with Bluetooth® stereo headphones, users can hear their favorite music the way it was meant to be heard.
A built-in GPS navigation feature in the TM506 along with the TeleNav® application from T-Mobile allows users to always know their location. T-Mobile consumers have numerous messaging and communication options such as sending pictures, videos, IM notes and e-mail from their TM506 to their faves from the homescreen with T-Mobile myFaves®.
The TM506 will be available in early September at select T-Mobile retail stores and online at www.t-mobile.com.
TM506 Phone At-A-Glance
* Weight: 3.4 ounces, including battery (approx.) * Size: 3.7 x 1.9 x 0.69 inches (approx.) * Talk Time: Up to 9.5 hours GSM; up to 3.5 hours UMTS (approx.) * Standby Time: Up to 250 hours GSM, up to 250 hours UMTS (approx.) * 2.0 Megapixel Camera * Media Center * aGPS Built-in * TeleNav® Navigator * RSS Feeds * myFaves-enabled * Audio Postcard * Quicksend * Mobile Backup (T-Mobile Address Book) * Bluetooth® 2.0 / A2DP / Stereo streaming * Tri-Band GSM (850/1800/1900) * Dual-Band UMTS (1700/2100 & 2100) * GSM/GRPS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA
Legal Information
1) Talk and standby times are affected by network settings, type of SIM card, connected accessories and various activities e.g. games.
2) Web feeds, text and e-mail require an appropriate T-Mobile data plan.
The liquid identity logo is registered trademark of Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB. Sony, Memory Stick Micro and M2 are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. Ericsson is the trademark or registered trademark of Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson.
Bluetooth is a trademark or registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG Inc.
Other product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners. Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB, 2008.
Sony Computer Entertainment Announces Expansion of Closed Beta Testing for PLAYSTATION®Home in Summer 2008
Open Beta Service Scheduled For Fall 2008...
Tokyo, April 22, 2008 – Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) announced today that it will expand the Closed Beta testing for PLAYSTATION®Home in Summer 2008, inviting a further number of registrants from the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3®) users. Following completion of the Expanded Closed Beta test, the PLAYSTATION Home Open Beta service will commence in Fall 2008.
“We understand that we are asking PS3 and prospective PS3 users to wait a bit longer, but we have come to the conclusion that we need more time to refine the service to ensure a more focused gaming entertainment experience than what it is today,” said Kazuo Hirai, President and Group CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. “Our overarching objective is to provide users with new gaming experiences that are available only on PLAYSTATION Home. Spending more time on the development and on the Closed Beta testing reaffirms our commitment to bringing a quality service, maintaining the PlayStation® tradition.”
The PLAYSTATION Home Open Beta service that will become available in Fall 2008 will be built around providing new and fun community gaming experiences. Details of the Closed Beta testing features, registration for the test and the opening of the service will be announced as they become available. About PLAYSTATION®Home
PLAYSTATION®Home is the visual representation of the PlayStation® community. It is an evolving online social gaming service built for PS3® users to meet and share gaming experiences.
About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufacturers, distributes and markets the PlayStation® game console, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system and the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3®) system. PlayStation has revolutionized home entertainment by introducing advanced 3D graphic processing, and PlayStation 2 further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home networked entertainment. PSP is a new handheld entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3 is an advanced computer system, incorporating the state-of-the-art Cell processor with super computer like power. SCEI, along with its subsidiary divisions Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc., Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and Sony Computer Entertainment Korea Inc. develops, publishes, markets and distributes software, and manages the third party licensing programs for these platforms in the respective markets worldwide. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. is an independent business unit of the Sony Group.
Sony PSP Slim & Lite If it’s portable entertainment, nothing beats the Sony PSP (PlayStation Portable). There’s a new version out called the PSP Slim, widely available with your local grey market vendor. Price varies between $249 and $299. So what’s so good about it? Well, the Slim (PSP 2000) is lighter than the PSP (PSP 1000)—down to 189 gm with batteries. It has been optimised to use less power. The RAM has been doubled to 64 MB. The screen remains unchanged—480x272 (16:9) widescreen TFT LCD.The buttons are more responsive and stick out a little further from the body. The drive seems a little less noisy. The Slim features a video-out connector. When you’re at home or in a Wi-Fi hotspot, you can connect and start surfing. For the price, nothing beats the PSP if you’re into gaming on the move. If you’re a movie buff, however, move on to Entertainment.
Here's video Review of PSP 2000
What's different: Comparing the updated PSP to the original If you're already familiar with the PSP, we'll cut right to the chase. The new PSP is an evolutionary upgrade, with the following key changes:
Thinner and lighter: The new PSP is 19 percent thinner and fully one-third lighter than the original version of the console. Anyone used to the older PSP will immediately notice the reduced weight as soon as they pick it up.
Slightly improved cosmetics and controls: The thinner profile offers a slightly sleeker, more rounded look and feel. Even better, however, is that all of the control buttons (the D-pad on the left, the PlayStation circle, X, square, and triangle on the right, and the shoulder buttons on the top) are all sitting a bit more elevated on the chassis' face. As a result, they have a bit more travel and spring to them. They feel just a tad more responsive--and that's a good thing. Faster loading times: The new PSP utilizes a system setting called "UMD Cache" that enables faster loading of game discs. The secret is the new PSP's extra RAM--it's got 64MB versus the 32 on the original model, and just like a PC, more memory enables faster performance. Many games do indeed load faster--while Test Drive Unlimited showed no real improvement in GameSpot's testing, Pro Evolution Soccer 2007 and WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2007 both showed nice gains, for instance. But don't expect miracles: the UMD load times are still poky when compared to the lightning-fast, Flash-based games of the Nintendo DS and Game Boy.
Video output to a TV requires a breakout cable (sold separately), and has a few important caveats.
Video output: The new PSP features an AV output jack (which doubles as a standard headphone connector). With the purchase of a special breakout cable (composite and component versions are available for about $20 apiece), you can display the PSP's audio and video on virtually any TV. But there are a few notable caveats--most notably, the maximum video resolution varies according to the content displayed. Video content from UMD discs (prerecorded movies) and Memory Stick (home-ripped videos) can be displayed at DVD-level 720x480 resolutions--though quality will vary depending upon how the compression of the video in question--but games are locked into the PSP's native 480x272 display. So, if your TV doesn't have a robust zoom function, you're stuck with a window-boxed experience for games. Another potentially bigger problem with games is that they don't seem to even work on TVs that can't handle progressive-scan (480p) output. So while nearly any HDTV should be fine (with the component cable), older televisions will be limited to displaying nongaming video output.
USB charging: The new PSP can be charged via the USB port, but it's more trouble than it's worth. The resulting trickle charge will take about 5 hours to fully juice up the unit, versus about half that using the standard adapter. Worse, the unit needs to be on and connected to a powered-up PC, and you have to engage the USB mode (as you would when connecting to PC) in order to activate the charge process. If you really need USB charging, opt instead for the Kensington USB Power Tip--the sub-$20 cable lets you charge any PSP (new or old) from any USB-powered jack, including that of an iPod power adapter or the Belkin Dual USB Power Adapter.
In other words, there are a couple of nice cosmetic improvements, but the USB charging and video output additions are something of a disappointment. (Perhaps some of the problems can be addressed via future firmware upgrades.) But demanding gadget fans will note that there's still plenty of room for improvement. Even without a radical redesign, the lack of a second analog stick and some built-in flash memory seems like a lost opportunity. Likewise, some persistent annoyances--such as the low volume levels and glossy fingerprint-prone screen--are frustratingly intact. And while it's more a political than a technical limitation, Sony's continued resistance to the homebrew movement seems shortsighted; we'd love to see the PSP be available as an open platform for third-party game and application developers without the need to hack it.
Design Aside from the slimmer dimensions (2.81 inches high by 6.63 inches wide by 0.63 inch deep) and lighter weight (just over 7 ounces--or 200 grams-- with the battery, game disc, and Memory Stick on board), the new Sony PSP doesn't look much different from its predecessor. The luscious 4.3-inch wide-screen LCD display remains, bordered by controls on its left, right, and bottom side, plus two shoulder buttons along the top edge. The button layout is based on the classic PlayStation controller layout--four-way directional pad on the left, square, triangle, cross, and circle keys on the right--so anyone who's used a Sony console over the last decade should be able to pick up and play. The bottom left of the front face also houses an analog thumbstick, for more precise movement. More mundane media controls line the bottom of the screen: select, start, volume, brightness, and a "home" button.
The slimmer profile is immediately noticeable when compared to the old PSP.
The rounded contours on the backside of the earlier PSP have been replaced with a totally flat surface. And we mean flat--unlike the rough exterior of the older model, the skin of the new PSP is perfectly smooth. And while it certainly looks even sexier, it may well be too smooth for the sweaty palms of some gamers. They'll probably want to invest in a case that doubles as a grip enhancer (just be sure to wait for cases that are specifically designed for the new PSP, not its fatter older brother).
The Wi-Fi (WLAN) switch takes the place of the UMD eject button.
Other changes from the old to the new: the UMD bay is now a bit more low-tech (instead of a sprint-loaded eject, you just pry open the chamber with your fingernail) and the Wi-Fi on/off switch is on the top edge (rather than the left side). And the headphone/AV jack is on the bottom edge, free of the obstruction of the handstrap loop. That doesn't sound like a big improvement, but being able to use any set of 3.5mm headphones--regardless of the size of the plug nub--is a nice contrast to the iPhone's annoying restrictive recessed headphone jack.
The Memory Stick Duo slot remains on the left edge. Like the UMD bay, it's a pry-open cover that slides on rubbery plastic rails. If you're not buying a PSP bundle that includes an MS Duo card (or don't have a spare one from a Sony camera), you'll want to invest in a decently sized one. Thankfully, 1GB models are widely available for under $30.
The PSP's interface is known as the Cross Media Bar, or XMB. If you've used the PlayStation 3, or even one of Sony's new high-end AV receivers or TVs, you already know what to expect: it's a pretty slick menuing system that's generally pretty easy to maneuver through using the D-pad and control buttons. As you get into some of the applications, however, that simplicity can get lost. We wished the Web browser, for instance, was as well-designed as the overall XMB menu system.
The USB port remains centered on the top edge of the PSP. Sony doesn't include a cable, but it's a standard mini-USB connector, so it's likely that you already have one lying around. The USB connector is flanked by two screw holes that allow for accessories (see below) to be firmly attached to its frame. But most people will use the USB port for quick connections to the PC to transfer digital media--photos, music, video, and even game demos available at Sony's Web site.
Multimedia and online features The PSP is primarily a gaming device, but it's got some notable media functionality as well.
Video playback: The PSP can play videos from a variety of sources. The easiest--and most ill-advised--is to buy prerecorded UMD video discs. (With an extremely limited selection, and the fact that the PSP is the only place you can watch them, UMD videos are--not surprisingly--pretty hard to find.) A better--albeit more involved--option is to copy your own videos from a computer onto a Memory Stick Duo card, and pop it in to the PSP. A variety of free and commercial software products can convert files to PSP-friendly formats and resolutions (MPEG4 or H.264-AVC, up to 720x480). Other content sources include TiVo Series2 (the TiVo To Go Desktop software can convert recorded shows for viewing on the PSP) and dedicated flash media recorders, such as the Neuros MPEG-4 Recorder 2 Plus and the SanDisk V-Mate, which can be preset to record TV shows in PSP-compatible formats straight away, with no PC needed.
LocationFree TV: Built into the PSP is the ability to stream live TV from a Sony LocationFree TV device, which is Sony's take on the Slingbox. As long as the PSP is in a Wi-Fi hotspot, it can stream the video and change the channels on a LocationFree box, even if it's halfway around the world.
audio playback: The PSP doubles as a decent music player, with the ability to play DRM-free MP3, WMA, WAV, AAC, and ATRAC3 files, along with support for album art. Shuffle and repeat modes are supported, along with a visualizer function.
photo display: The PSP can display JPEG, GIF, and TIFF photos stored on the MS Duo card--individually, or as a slideshow.
PS3 "Remote Play": The PSP can log into a PlayStation 3 on a home network or via the Web, and stream any video, audio, or photos stored on the PS3. The PSP can also download and play some PlayStation Network game titles from the PS3 (mostly PlayStation 1 titles that have been rereleased specifically for that purpose).
Web browsing: The PSP has a built-in Web browser, but it's the one place--more than games--where you'll really lament the device's lack of a touchscreen (or even a numeric keypad). A lot of graphically rich pages will be cramped or broken on the screen, and the limited Flash support isn't particularly robust (no Flash-based video, for instance). That said, using the analog stick to control the cursor is nice, and any Wi-Fi connection is fair game (it can handle WEP and WPA encryption). And for a lot of people, it will be a better mobile Internet experience than they're getting on a phone. A separate RSS reader option is available, but it's a little more complicated than we'd like to add your own feeds.
Network update: The PSP has an upgradeable firmware, and Sony has been diligent about adding additional features, fixes, and updates every few months. The upgrade is as simple as choosing the option from the system menu.
Outside of North America, the PSP media options are even more robust: Japanese users have the option of a snap-on digital TV tuner for over-the-air broadcasts, while Europeans will soon have a video-on-demand service and VoIP communications. Likewise, Sony's international subsidiaries tout other PSP add-ons--a GPS device and a camera--that never quite seem to turn up stateside.
Can the PSP take the place of your iPod, iPhone, or portable DVD player? For die-hard media junkies--those with an 80GB iPod filled to the brim with music and videos--the answer is basically no. But if you're looking to travel with a few hours of music or some TV episodes, it makes for some nice diversion from a game, without having to lug a second device along. And while the screen isn't as large as you'd get with a portable DVD player, the PSP is decidedly less bulky--and its screen is considerably larger than that of the iPod or the iPhone.
Gaming While its robust media and online functionality are impressive, for most buyers, they'll be decidedly secondary to the PSP's raison d'etre: gaming on the go. Yes, Nintendo's DS remains king of the portable gaming scene in terms of units sold, but plenty of people are looking for more sophisticated (read: less kiddie-oriented) games than the DS offers. And for those who can't abide the oh-so-cute antics of a Pokemon, Cooking Mama, Zelda, Mario, or Animal Crossing title, the PSP will be a welcome breath of fresh air. The graphics on the PSP are noticeably better than those on the DS as well--games are essentially at the level you'd expect on the PlayStation 2.
PSP games are more graphically rich--and often less kid-oriented--than many titles on the Nintendo DS.
Early on, the PSP was knocked for being little more than the "PS2 portable," because so many of its titles were simply ports of PlayStation 2 games. And, indeed, its hit list is dominated by many PlayStation franchise standbys, including Grand Theft Auto, SOCOM, Tekken, and Burnout. But many of these are phenomenal titles that have been designed for the PSP from the ground up. Genre strong suits include sports, racing, action, and shooter titles, but it's not all sweat and blood, either--plenty of quirky puzzle games (Lumines, Puzzle Quest, Loco Roco) are available, as well as a host of family-friendly favorites as well (Daxter, Ratchet and Clank).
It's also worth noting that many of the PSP games include an online multiplayer component. Some games offer ad hoc multiplayer (peer to peer, for playing against other PSP'ers in the same room), others offer Internet play, or both. Online gameplay is free, and--while the experience varies from title to title and is dependent on network speed--it can be just as fun and fulfilling as playing on a home console.
Battery life To keep its slim figure, the new PSP has a flatter 1200mAh battery than the more bulbous 1800mAh one on the previous model. But, because it uses power more efficiently, it's actually rated for the same play time--3 to 6 hours of gameplay, or 3 to 5 of video playback. Going on a long flight? The more capacious battery actually fits into the battery bay, and offers several more hours of battery life--but the battery cover won't fit over the top of it. (Sony will be selling an extended battery kit, with the larger battery and proper cover.) The better battery life is welcome, of course, but DS gamers will be disappointed--unlike that Energizer Bunny of gaming systems, you'll need to be juicing up the PSP more frequently.
Is the new PSP for me? Someday, no doubt, Sony will debut a full-on PSP2, with a host of next-gen features and a more radical redesign. But for now, we've got an evolutionary upgrade of a portable gaming and media console that already had a lot going for it. Existing PSP owners won't need to run out and get this new version unless they really need one of the key upgrades--video out, lighter weight, or faster load times. Anyone else need only look at the available lineup of PSP games. If playing sophisticated, graphically rich versions of games such as Syphon Filter, Metal Gear Solid, MLB: The Show, and--in 2008--God of War is appealing to you, the PSP will ensure that you'll always be entertained. With its impressive game library, lower price, and expanded feature set, it's certainly a much better deal than the original PSP was when it debuted in 2005. And while its media and online functions won't necessarily replace a dedicated AV device or laptop, you may well find it to be good enough in plenty of situations.
