PlayStation Portable ( PSP ) is a handheld game console developed by Sony Computer Entertainment. The handheld development was announced during E3 2003, and was unveiled on May 11, 2004, at a Sony press conference prior to E3 2004. The system was released in Japan on December 12, 2004, in the United States North on March 24 , 2005, and in the PAL region on September 1 , 2005. Primarily competes with the Nintendo DS, as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles.
The PlayStation Portable became the most powerful portable system when it was launched, right after the Nintendo DS in 2004. This was the first real competitor to Nintendo's handheld dominance, where many challengers, such as SNK Neo Geo Pocket and Nokia N-Gage, failed. The GPU includes high-end graphics on the handset, while the 4.3-inch (110 mm) screen and multi-media capabilities, such as the video player and TV tuner, make the PlayStation Portable the ultimate mobile entertainment device of the day. It also features connectivity with PlayStation 3, Windows, Mac, PSP and other Internet. It is the only handheld console that uses the optical disc format, Universal Media Disc (UMD), as its primary storage media.
The original PSP model (PSP-1000) was replaced by a slimmer model with design changes (PSP-2000/"Slim and Lite") in 2007. Other re-modeling followed in 2008, the PSP-3000, which includes a new and built-in screen -in microphone. The full redesign, PSP Go, came in 2009, followed by the budget model, PSP-E1000, in 2011. The PSP line was replaced by the PlayStation Vita, released in December 2011 in Japan, and in February 2012 worldwide. PlayStation Vita has backward compatibility with many PlayStation Portable games released digitally on the PlayStation Network, via the PlayStation Store. In 2017, this is the main method for buying PlayStation Portable games digitally because Sony closes direct access to the PlayStation Store via PSP on March 31, 2016. PlayStation Portable hardware shipment ends throughout 2014 worldwide, having sold 80 million units in 10 years of age life. The worldwide software production of UMD ended when the last Japanese plant closed at the end of 2016.
Video PlayStation Portable
History
Sony first announced the development of the PlayStation Portable at a press conference before E3 2003. Although the system mock-up was not present at a press conference or E3, Sony did not release extensive technical details about the new system. Then Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Jose Villeta called the device "Walkman of the 21st Century" in reference to multimedia console capabilities. Some gaming websites are impressed by the ability of handheld computing and are looking forward to the potential of the system as a gaming platform.
Nintendo has dominated the handheld market since launching its Game Boy in 1989, with the only closest competitor being Sega's Game Gear (1990-1997), and Bandai's WonderSwan (1999-2003) in Japan. Later offers from SNK and Nokia also failed to cut the portion of Nintendo. The PSP is called "the first legitimate competitor to Nintendo's dominance in the handheld market" by IDC analysts in 2004.
The first draft image of the PSP appeared in November 2003 at Sony Corporate Strategy Meeting and showed the PSP with a flat button and no analog stick. Although some expressed concern over the lack of an analog joystick, this fear was healed when the PSP was officially unveiled at Sony's press conference during E3 2004. In addition to announcing more details about its systems and accessories, Sony also released a list of 99 developer companies that have promised support for new handheld devices. Some PSP game demos, such as Konami's Metal Gear Acid and Liverpool's SCE Studio Wipeout Pure are also featured at the conference.
Launch
On October 17, 2004, Sony announced that the PSP would be launched in Japan on December 12, 2004, at a price of Ã, Â 19,800 (approximately US $ 181 in 2004) for the base model and Ã, Â ¥ 24,800 (approx. US $ 226 in 2004) for the Value System. The successful launch of the console with more than 200,000 units sold on the first day. Different color variations are also sold in bundle packages, which cost more than usual, about $ 200. Sony announced on February 3, 2005, that the PSP will go on sale in North America on March 24, 2005, in one configuration for MSRP of US $ 249/CA $ 299. Some expressed concern over the high price, which is almost US $ 20 higher than the price of the system in Japan and more than $ 100 higher than the recently launched Nintendo DS. Despite concerns, the North American PSP's launch was a success, although a report two weeks later showed that the system was not selling as well as expected despite Sony's claim that 500,000 units had been sold in the first two days.
The PSP initially had the PAL region simultaneously and the North American launch, but on March 15 2005, Sony announced that the PAL region launch will be delayed due to high demand for consoles in Japan and the North. America. A month later, on April 25, 2005, Sony announced that the PSP will be launched in the PAL region on September 1, 2005, for EUR249/Ã, £ 179. Sony defends the price high, which is almost US $ 100 higher than in North America, indicating that North American consumers should pay local sales taxes and that VAT (sales tax) is higher in the UK than the US. Despite the high price, the launch of the PAL console area was a huge success, selling over 185,000 units in the UK alone, selling all national stocks in the UK within three hours of launch, more than double than the previous day's first day record of 87,000 units set by Nintendo DS. The system also enjoys great success in other areas of the PAL region with more than 25,000 units sorted in Australia and nearly one million units sold throughout Europe in the first week.
Maps PlayStation Portable
Technical specifications
The following Technical Specifications apply to all PSPs unless noted for certain PSP series:
Model
Variations
Area code
PSP is widely known with serial code (PSP-1000, PSP-2000, etc.). There is a sub-code in this numbering system but which indicates region coding. Free PSP game game disks, however, most movie discs have region encoding, so it will only work on the corresponding master unit.
The PSP is sold in four different main configurations in which the accessory is included. Basic unit packs or Basic Packages (called Core Packages in North America) contain consoles, batteries, and AC adapters. This version is available during launch in Japan and later released in North America and Europe. The core package currently sells for CA $/US $ 169.99, Ã, 19,800, HK $ 1,280 or $ 1,360 (depending on the color), S $ 280, A $ 279.95, NZ $ 299.95, EUR169 , 99, and Ã, £ 129.99.
Value Packs include everything in the 32 MB Memory Stick Bundle and Memory Stick Pro Duo, headphones with remote control, carrier pouch, and wrist strap. Some regions have modified this package version that includes different accessories. The Value Package sells for US $ 199.99, Â ¥ 23,800, HK $ 1660, A $ 399.99, INR6990, and NZ $ 449.95.
Many limited edition versions of the PSP that include various accessories, games, or movies have also been released.
Retail Configuration
Redesign
PSP-2000
PSP-2000 (marketed in the PAL area as "PSP Slim & Lite" and still marketed as a PSP in North America, Japan, China, India, Italy and Portugal) is the first redesign of the PlayStation Portable.
At E3 2007, Sony released information about a thinner and lighter version of the PlayStation Portable. The model number is changed to PSP-2000 , following the previous region-based numbering scheme (see PSP-1000 numbering scheme of the "old" PSP model).
The album was released on August 30, 2007, in Hong Kong, on September 5, 2007, in Europe, on September 6th, 2007, in North America, September 7, 2007. , 2007, in South Korea and September 12 , 2007, in Australia. On January 8 , 2008, the internal Skype Wi-Fi Internet phone service has been added through firmware updates.
The PSP 2000 system is 19% thinner and 33% lighter than the original PSP system (reduced from 23 mm to 18.6 mm and from 280 grams [9.87 ounces] to 189 grams [6,66 ounces]). Internal changes to achieve this include removal of metal chassis (used to reduce damage in case of sudden trauma to a user-generated system that drops the system on a hard surface).
Other changes include improved WLAN and Micro-controller modules, and thinner and lighter LCDs. To meet the generation time of poor PSP generation of UMD games, internal memory (RAM and Flash ROM) is doubled from 32 MB to 64 MB with part of it now acting as cache, which also improves the performance of the web browser.
PSP-3000
Compared to PSP-2000, the PSP-3000 (marketed in the PAL area as PSP Slim & Lite , or "PSP Brite" (with built-in built-in microphone screens) and is still marketed as a PSP in America North and Japan) has an enhanced LCD display featuring increased color range, five times contrast ratio, half pixel response time to reduce shadow and blur effects, new sub-pixel structure, and anti-reflective technology to enhance outdoor playback. The disk trays, logos and buttons have all been redesigned and the system now has a microphone. In addition, all games can now be output by component or composite using video out cable.
In its first four days of sales, PSP-3000 sold 141,270 units in Japan, according to Famitsu . In October 2008, PSP-3000 sold 267,000 units in Japan, according to Enterbrain.
PSP Go (N1000)
PSP Go (PSPgo style or PSP go, PSP-N1000 model) was released on October 1, 2009 in North America and Europe, and on November 1st in Japan. It was revealed before E3 2009 through Sony's Vore Qore service. Although the design is very different from other PSPs, it is not meant to replace the PSP 3000, which Sony continues to create, sell, and support. On April 20, 2011, the manufacturer announced that the PSP Go will be discontinued so as to concentrate on the PlayStation Vita. Sony then said that only the European and Japanese versions were cut off, and that the console would remain available in the North American market until the time of termination of the PSP and its production.
Unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go does not have a UMD drive, but has a 16 GB internal flash memory for storing games, videos, pictures, and other media. It can be extended up to 32 GB using Memory Stick Micro (M2). Also unlike previous PSP models, the rechargeable PSP Go battery can not be removed or replaced by the user without removing some screws and breaking the band that voids the warranty. The unit is 43% lighter and 56% smaller than the original PSP-1000, and 16% lighter and 35% smaller than the PSP-3000. It has an LCD screen of 3.8 "480Ã, ÃÆ'â €" 272 (compared to LCD 4.3 "480Ã, ÃÆ'â €" 272 pixels larger on previous PSP models). The screen slid up to open the main control. The overall shape and sliding mechanism are similar to Sony's mylo COM-2 internet device.
The PSP Go has Wi-Fi 802.11b features like its predecessor, but no longer uses the standard USB A-to-Mini-B standard wires with many devices. A new multi-use connector is used for USB connectivity. The appropriate USB cable is included with the unit. The new multi-use connector allows charging and USB similar to the previous unit, as well as video and sound output with the same connector (using optional composites or component AV cables), unlike previous offerings that have TV OUT and Sony's separate USB port functionality also offer an optional stand (PSP-N340) for charging, video out, and USB data transfer on the PSP Go, similar to the previous offer. PSP Go adds support for Bluetooth connectivity, enabling the use of compatible Bluetooth headsets and tethering with Bluetooth enabled phones. It also allows users to connect and play games using the Sixaxis or DualShock 3 PlayStation 3 or Bluetooth Headset controllers. The use of the PSP-N340 stand along with the controller allows players to use the PSP Go as a portable device and as a console, although PSP upscaling games is not possible, leaving images smaller than the TV screen, even on CRT TVs. Playstation 1 games can be played in full screen using the AV/COMPONENT cable or PSP-N340 holder.
Because the PSP Go does not display the UMD drive, the game is downloaded from the PlayStation Store. While other PSP models include the ability to run games and demos downloaded from the PlayStation Store, PSP Go is the first in which this is the only distribution tool . PSP Go has a demo version of Patapon 2 loaded into the system and also comes with ESRB ranking guides, both loaded into internal memory in the game section. Effective UMD drive removal area locks the unit due to the way in which the PSP should be connected to a single PlayStation Network account. Since each account is locked in one region, it prevents users from playing games from more than one region at a time (because games from an account other than the currently linked account can not be started). There are three ways to access the PlayStation Store. PSP Go can be directly downloaded by itself, or users can also download and then transfer the game from PlayStation 3 or Media Go software on Windows-based computers. All downloadable PSP and PlayStation games are currently available for older PSP compatible PSP Go models. Sony also confirmed that almost all UMD-based PSP games released after October 1, 2009 will be available for download, and the majority of older UMD games will also be available for download later.
In February 2010, it was suggested that Sony can relaunch its PSP Go in the future, due to the lack of consumer interest and bad sales. In May 2010, it was revealed that Sony would then sell the PSP Go with ten free downloadable games in the UK. Sony began offering free games in June 2010. The same offer was made available in Australia in July 2010. It was later revealed that Sony will also offer three free games for PSP Go in America. In October 2010, Sony announced a price reduction for PSP Go, bringing the price to $ 199.99.
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Announced at Gamescom 2011, the PSP-E1000 is a budget-focused model of the PSP that becomes available throughout the PAL region on October 26, 2011 for the RRP of EUR99.99. Unlike previous PSP models, the E1000 lacks Wi-Fi capabilities and has a matte "black charcoal" similar to the PlayStation 3. Also, this feature only features mono speakers instead of the previous stereo speakers and does not have a microphone feature. The 'Ice White' version was then released in all PAL areas on July 20, 2012.
Battery
To make the PSP leaner, battery capacity decreases by 1/3. However, due to more efficient power usage, the PSP processing time is still the same as the previous model. Older model batteries will work that extend play time. However, battery cover on newer models does not match older batteries due to their larger size. The battery takes about one and a half hours to charge and lasts about 4.5-7 hours depending on factors such as screen brightness settings, WLAN and volume levels.
In mid-December 2008, Sony released the PSP Extended Life Battery Kit, which includes a 2200 mAh battery with a battery cover that matches a larger battery, initially available only in North America. The package comes with two new battery covers, one black and one silver. In March 2008, Extended Battery Kit was released in Japan. However, unlike North American devices, batteries are sold separately with one special cover for several different color variations available in Japan. There are ten separate kits for the colors of Black Piano, Ice White, Ceramic White, Pearl White, Ice Silver, Mystic Silver, Radiant Red, Spirited Green, Vibrant Blue, Bright Yellow and Black Piano with Portable Original Design Monster Hunter.
External views, inputs and outputs
PSP Slim & amp; Lite has a new gloss finish. The serial port is also modified to accommodate the new video-out feature (while the old PSP remote rendering rendering is not compatible). In PSP-2000, PSP games will only produce output to an external monitor or TV in progressive scanning mode, so television that is not capable of supporting progressive scanning will not display PSP games. Non-game video output either in progressive or interlaced mode. USB charging is possible (PSP Slim will only charge while in "USB mode." It can not be charged via USB while playing the game). However, there is an unofficial USB plug-in download charge to charge the PSP with USB without needing to be in USB mode. The D-Pad was raised in response to poor performance complaints, while the buttons offered better responses, confirmed in GameSpot's "hands-on" reviews: some GameSpot editors have noticed that the d-pad and buttons on the new PSP give a little better feedback for better overall feelings. "
The more simple and more compact UMD tray design is developed, where the tray spins out instead of fully open, while the Wi-Fi switch is moved to the top of the PSP. To address many consumer complaints about Memory Stick doors that shut down old PSPs, Memory Stick doors have been relocated and redesigned. Speakers are repositioned on the front of the PSP near the top of the screen. The infrared port is also removed because it does not offer usage for the original PSP generation in addition to the homebrew app. The analog stick is also redesigned to be more flexible and non-removable without opening the PSP. The air vents at the top of the original document are also removed.
A "1seg" TV tuner (PSP-S310 model) device, specially designed for PSP Slim & amp; Model Lite, released in Japan on September 20, 2007.
TV output and accessory port
Sony added TV output to PSP Slim through Firmware 3.60 update. It can produce a conventional aspect ratio (4: 3) or widescreen (16: 9), and offers a screensaver if the PSP is inactive for a specified time. It is capable of displaying games, videos, and other media. To achieve TV output on Slim, Composite, S-Video, Component (YP B P R ) models and D-Terminal (YP B Cable P R ) sold separately by Sony. The PSP format game is output as a progressive scanning signal, which can be done only with Component and D-Terminal cables, and is displayed on television that supports progressive scanning. They are also given at a screen resolution of 480 ÃÆ'â € "272 from the PSP screen instead of the 720 ÃÆ' â €" 480 resolution used for output, and not upgraded, meaning that they are displayed with black windowboxing when viewed on an external screen. This can be solved on some TVs by using the built-in zoom function. However, PSP system software, music player, and video playback are displayed in full screen. On firmware update 5.00, PlayStation (PSone) format software purchased from the PlayStation Store is issued in full-screen mode and optionally in an interlaced format for non-progressive views. The maximum resolution through TV output is 720Ã, ÃÆ' â € "480 pixels and composite video using NTSC color coding (no PAL composite signal available; European TV must be compatible with NTSC for use with PSP via composite). The old PSP-1000 model can not afford this feature because the ports are slightly different. As a result, the original PSP accessory (using the connector) will not work with Slim and Slim accessories will not work with the original PSP. Sony released a new version of remote control accessory designed for Slim as a result. The Slim PSP can still use 3.5 mm headphones, like the old PSP-1000. Serial Port is not available on the PSP-E1000, so it can not have TV output and remote control connected.
Sony confirmed GPS Accessories for the United States at Sony CES 2008. GPS will be sold for the new PSP Slim model. It features maps on UMD, and offers driving directions and city guides.
In the years after the termination of PSP, Chinese electronics company Lenkeng released a PSP converter to HDMI called LKV-8000. This device is compatible with PSP-2000, PSP-3000 and PSP GO, but the packaged AV cable requires an adapter to plug into the GO PSP port. Instead of the component RCA plugs, the YPbPr PSP AV signal is taken through a scattered D-sub 9 cable that converts the signal from analog to digital and increases it to 720p via HDMI. Lenkeng also released a variant of LKV-8000 with a button that allows users to switch between 720p and 1080p. To solve the PSP game problem that is displayed in a small window surrounded by black boarder, LKV-8000 displays the Zoom button on the connector itself. This allows the player to fill the screen in real time, without the need to use the zoom function of the television. Some other Chinese companies have also released these upscaler clones under different names, such as Pyle PSPHD42. The LKV-8000 and its variants have become popular among players and reviewers as the only way to play and record PSP gameplay on full screen.
Release and Limited Edition model
The Limited Edition model was released in Japan on September 12 , 2007; North America on September 5 , 2007; Australia on September 12 , 2007; UK on October 26, 2007, and Europe on September 5, 2007. PSP-2000 is made available on Black Pianos, White Ceramics, Ice Silver, Green Mint, Felicia Blue, Lavender Purple, Deep Red, Matte Bronze, Metallic Blue and Rose Pink as standard colors (not all colors are available in all countries), and have multiple color consoles and finished special editions for games including Final Fantasy VII: Core Crisis (engraved silver ice), Star Ocean: First Departure (felicia blue etched), Gundam (red gloss/matte black) and Monster Hunter Freedom (gold silkscreened) PSP in Japan, Star Wars (Darth Vader silkscreened) and God of War: Chains of Olympus (Kratos silkscreened) PSPs in North America, a The Simpsons (bright yellow with white button, analog drawer and UMD) PSP in Australia and New Zealand, and Spider-Man (red gloss/matte black) and Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core (ice silver engraved) PSPs in Europe. Me My Katamari
PSP 3000, was released on October 14, 2008, in North America, in Europe on October 17, 2008, on October 16, 2008, in Japan and in Australia in the October 23 , 2008, made available in Piano Black, Pearl White, Mystic Silver, Radiant Red, Vibrant Blue, Spirited Green, Pink Blossom, Turquoise Green, and Lilac Purple. The "Limited Boss" Limited Edition of Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker sees the release of PSP camouflage while the special package of God of War: Ghost of Sparta The PSP includes two black and red PSP colors. March 3, 2011 saw the release of Dissidia 012 Duodecim Cosmos & amp; Chaos PSP-3000 Limited Edition which has Amano's artwork as a PSP faceplate.
Hardware problem
On release, problems with interlaces are visible on the PSP-3000 screen when objects are moving. Gaming Bits (among other things) did an in-depth review of the differences between the two versions, noting the interlacing problem, and about a week later Sony announced that they would not release any software updates to address this issue:
On some occasions, the scan line may appear in scenes where the brightness changes drastically, due to the hardware features of the new LCD device on the PSP-3000. Installed with this new LCD device, the PSP-3000 offers more natural and vibrant colors on its screen, but the scanning line has become more visible as a result of increased response time to reduce the image afterwards on the PSP-3000. Because of this because of hardware specifications, there are no plans for system software updates related to this issue.
Sales
As of March 31, 2007, the PlayStation Portable has shipped 25.39 million units worldwide with 6.92 million in Asia, 9.58 million in North America, and 8.89 million Europe. In Europe, the PSP sold 4 million units in 2006 and 3.1 million in 2007 according to Electronic Arts estimates. In 2007, PSP sold 3.82 million units in the US according to NPD Group and 3,022,659 in Japan according to Enterbrain. In 2008, the PSP sold 3,543,171 units in Japan, according to Enterbrain.
In the United States, the PSP has sold 10.47 million units as of January 1, 2008, according to the NPD Group. In Japan, during the week of March 24 -30, 2008, the PSP almost defeated all other gaming consoles combined with 129,986 units sold, some of them bundled with Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G , which was the best-selling game of the week, according to Media Create. On December 28 , 2008, the PSP has sold 11,078,484 units in Japan, according to Enterbrain. In Europe, the PSP has sold a 12 million unit on May 6 , 2008, according to Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. In the United Kingdom, the PSP has sold 3.2 million units on <3 January, , 2009, according to GfK Chart-Track.
From 2006 to the third quarter of 2010, the PSP has sold a total of 53 million units. In a 2009 interview, Peter Dillon, senior vice president of marketing at Sony, said that videogame piracy caused sales to be lower than expected.
Hardware
The PlayStation Portable uses the "slab" or "candybar" form factor, measuring about 17 ÃÆ'â € "7.3 ÃÆ'â €" 2.2 cm (6.7 ÃÆ'â € "2.9 ÃÆ'â €" 0.9Ã, Â), and weight 280 g (9.88 oz). The front of the console is dominated by an 11 cm (4.3 inch) LCD screen, capable of 480 ÃÆ'â € "272 pixels video playback with 16.77 million colors. Also on the front there are four PlayStation face buttons (,,,), analog pad, analog 'nub', and several other buttons. In addition, the system includes two shoulder buttons and a mini-B USB 2.0 port on the top of the console and the WLAN switch and the power cable input at the bottom. The back of the PSP has a read-only UMD drive for movies and games, and readers compatible with the Sony Memory Stick Duo flash card are located to the left of the system. Other features include infrared IRDA ports and two pin docking connectors (discontinued in PSP-2000 and later series), built in stereo speakers and headphone ports, and IEEE 802.11b Wi-Fi for access to the Internet, multiplayer ad-hoc games, and transfers data.
The PSP uses a 333 MHz MIPS32 R4000 based CPU, a GPU with 2Ã, an onboard MB VRAM that runs at 166 MHz, and includes 32 MB main RAM and a total of 4 MB of DRAM. The hardware was initially forced to run slower than its ability and most games run at a speed of 222 MHz. However, with a 3.50 firmware update on May 31, 2007, Sony removed this limit and allowed the new game to run at full 333 MHz.
The PSP includes a 1800 mAh battery (1200 mAh on 2000 and 3000 models) that will provide about 4-6 hours of games, 4-5 hours of video playback, or 8-11 hours of audio playback. Official accessories for the console include AC adapter, car adapter, headset, remote control headphones, 2200 mAh battery life, battery charger, carrying case, accessory bag and cleaning cloth, and system bag and wrist strap. The PSP comes with a two-pin docking connector just below the AC adapter jack for easy charging by using a docking station that will be sold separately for the PSP-1000 series. But there is no charging dock ever released by Sony. Two-pin contact charging docking station has been removed from the PSP-2000 and later versions.
Software
System software
Sony has incorporated the capabilities for the operating system, referred to as System Software , to be updated. Updates can be downloaded directly from the Internet using the [System Update] feature under [Settings] in XMB. Alternatively, they can be downloaded to the computer from the official PlayStation website, placed on Memory Stick Duo (Memory Stick Micro for PSP Go models) in the following directory: PSP -> GAME -> UPDATE -> EBOOT.PBP, and then installed on the system. Updates can also be installed from UMD game discs that require updates to run the game. The Japanese version of the PS3 allows the System Software to be updated by downloading the System Software to the Hard Drive then to the PSP. Sony has prevented users from downgrading their PSP to an earlier version of the currently installed Software System.
While Software System updates may be used with consoles from any region, Sony recommends downloading only released updates for the region that corresponds to where the system purchased. System Software Update has added various features including web browser; Adobe Flash support; additional codecs for images, audio and video; PlayStation 3 connectivity and patches against multiple exploits of homebrew security, vulnerability and execution programs. The latest version is 6.61, released on January 15, 2015.
Web browser
The PSP Internet Browser is a version of the NetFront browser made by Access Co.. Ltd. and comes with the system through updates. The browser supports most common web technologies, such as HTTP cookies, forms, CSS, and basic JavaScript capabilities.
The browser also has limited tabbed search, with up to three tabs. When a website tries to open a link in a new window, the browser opens it in a new tab. The PSP browser is slower than the modern browsers and often runs out of memory due to the limitations imposed by Sony.
Play Remote
Remote Play allows PSP to access many PlayStation 3 console features from a remote location using WLAN PS3 capability, home network, or the Internet. Features that can be used with Remote Play include viewing photos and slideshows, listening to music, watching videos stored on PS3's HDD or on connected USB devices, and some other features. In addition, Remote Play allows the PS3 to be switched on and off remotely and allows the PSP to control audio playback from the PS3 to the home theater system without having to use the television. Although most of the PS3's capabilities can be accessed with Remote Play, DVD playback, Blu-ray Discs, PlayStation 2, most PlayStation 3 games, and files protected by copies stored on PS3 hard drives are not supported.
VoIP Access
Starting with the 3.90 software system version, PSP-2000, PSP-3000 and PSP-N1000 can use Skype VoIP service. The PSP-2000 requires a headset for this feature while the microphone is built into the PSP-3000 and PSP-N1000. Due to hardware constraints, it is not possible to use VoIP service on PSP-1000. This service allows Skype calls to be made over Wi-Fi and on the PSP. Go to Bluetooth Modem feature. Users must purchase Skype credit to make calls to non Skype devices such as landline or mobile phone.
Space for PlayStation Portable
Announced at TGS 2009, a similar service to PlayStation Home, a PlayStation 3 online community-based service, is being developed for PSP. Named "Room" (officially spelled as R? M with capital letters and an infinity symbol in place of "oo"), it is being beta tested in Japan from October 2009 to April 2010. It can be launched straight from PlayStation Network section of XMB. Just like in Home, PSP owners will be able to invite other PSP owners to their rooms to "enjoy real-time communication". Space Development stopped on April 15 , 2010, due to feedback from the community.
Digital Comic Reader
Sony has partnered with publishers such as Rebellion Developments, Disney, IDW Publishing, Insomnia, iVerse, Marvel and Titan to release digital comics on the PlayStation Store. This new app requires firmware of PSP 6.20 because it adds a new XMB category called "Extras". The Comics Reader Digital App can be downloaded on the PlayStation Comics official website.
The "Comics" section of the PlayStation Store was launched in the PAL regions of the United States and Britain (England, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand) on December 16th, 2009, though the first issue of
The selection of regional Comic reader software is determined by the PSP firmware region, and can not be selected. The Japanese Comic Reader will not display comics purchased from European stores, and vice versa. So even though the Japanese PSP can enter the European PlayStation Store and buy and display the videos and games purchased there, all purchased comics can not be displayed.
As of October 31, 2012, the Digital Comics App is no longer available for download.
As of December 31, 2012, the Comic Digital Server has been taken offline and previously purchased comics can no longer be downloaded again.
Games
In addition to playing PSP games, some older PlayStation games have been relaunched and can be downloaded and played on PSP via emulation. Currently, the only official way to access this feature is through PlayStation Network services for PlayStation 3, PSP, PlayStation Vita (or PlayStation TV), or PC.
Demos for commercial PSP games can be downloaded and booted directly from Memory Stick. Demos are also sometimes published in UMD format and sent out or delivered to customers in various retail outlets as promotional content.
Parts of the PlayStation Store are available to all PS3 and PSP owners. Various developers contribute to the creation of "Minis". This game is smaller, cheaper and only available for download. This game is available in the "mini" section of the PlayStation Store.
During E3 2006, Sony Computer Entertainment America announced that the range of Greatest Hits budget titles will be extended to the PSP system. On July 25 , 2006, Sony CEA released the first batch of Greatest Hits titles. The PSP Greatest Hits lineup consists of games that have sold 250,000 copies or more and have been out for nine months. PSP games in this lineup sell for $ 19.99 each.
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe announced on September 5, 2006 that titles will be available under the Platinum range of EUR24,99 in Europe and £ 19.99 in the UK respectively.
Sony says downloadable games will still be limited to 1.8 GB, most likely to warrant potential UMD releases.
Development of homebrew and custom firmware
On June 15, 2005, hackers unpacked the PSP code and distributed it online. Initially modified PSPs allow users to run special codes and a limited number of protected software. Sony responded by repeatedly updating the software. Homebrew is a custom made PSP app that consists of various types of features including calculator, remote, file manager, android simulator etc. Over time people can unlock the firmware and allow users to run more custom content and more protected software. One way hackers are able to run protected software on the PSP is through the creation of an ISO loader that can load a copy of the UMD game from the memory stick. Custom firmware is also often seen in PSP systems; the most notable include M33 Custom Firmware, Minimum Edition (ME/LME) CFW and PRO CFWl.
Emulation
Competition PSP has made much progress. PPSSPP, which is currently the fastest and most compatible PSP emulator available on multiple platforms - includes mobile platforms like iOS, Android, Windows and Mac.
Recently, TKJ 2 Vulkan support has been added to this emulator which makes it possible to run PSP games on their original FPS. All major games can now be played with the emulator.
Reception
The PSP received generally positive reviews soon after launch and most reviewers cited similar strengths and weaknesses. CNET gives the system 8.5 out of 10 and praises the powerful hardware of the console and its multimedia capabilities while lamenting the lack of screen guards or guards over the UMD cartridge reading surface. Engadget praised the design of the console, stating that "it must be a well-designed, slick little handheld". PC World hailed Sony's decision to include built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, but criticized the lack of web browsers at launch and the glare and stains resulting from the shiny exterior of the console. Most reviewers also praised the large and bright console display screen as well as its audio and video playback capabilities. In 2008, Time enrolled the PSP as a "Must have travel gadget", citing the selection of console movies, telecom capabilities, and upcoming GPS functionality.
Reviews about PSP Go have been mixed. It was primarily criticized for its initial price, with Ars Technica calling it "too expensive" and The Guardian stating that cost is the "biggest problem" facing the machine. Engadget points out that Go is only worth $ 50 less than the PlayStation 3, which comes with a Blu-ray player. Wired shows that the older PSP 3000 model is cheaper, while supporting UMD and IGN states that price increases make it a "hard sell". Lack of support for UMD and the inability to transfer games purchased at UMD to Go and placing the analog stick on the side of the d-pad have also been criticized. Reviewers also commented on how changing from mini-USB port to proprietary port means that the hardware and cables purchased for previous incarnations of the PSP are not compatible. The Go Screen has been positively received with Ars Technica calling the image "brilliant, sharp and clear", T3 stating that "images and videos look great". The controls have received mixed reviews with The Times which describes them as "instantly familiar" whereas CNET and Stuff call the analog position "awkward". The ability to use the PS3 controller was praised by The New Zealand Herald, but Ars Technica criticized the need to connect the controller and Go to PS3 for initial setup.
Controversial ad campaign
Sony acknowledged in late 2005 to hire graffiti artists to spray paint ads for PSPs in seven major US cities including New York City, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. The mayor of Philadelphia filed a stop and stop order. According to Sony, it pays businesses and building owners to the right to spray their walls.
See also
- Comparison of handheld game consoles
- Media Go - A Windows-enabled PSP application
- PlayStation Portable system software
- Sony Ericsson Xperia Play
Note
References
External links
- The official Australian PSP website
- Official New Zealand PSP website
- The Official UK PSP website
- The official US PSP website
- Official Canada Site
- PlayStation Portable in Curlie (based on DMOZ)
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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