PSPgo

The PSP Go (styled PSPgo or PSP go, model PSP-N1000) is a version of the PlayStation Portable handheld video game console to be manufactured by Sony.

It is scheduled for release on October 1st, 2009 in American territories and in European territories and on November 1st, 2009 in Japan. It was revealed prior to E3 2009 through Sony’s Qore VOD service.

Although its design is significantly different from other PSPs, it is not intended to replace the PSP 3000, which Sony will continue to manufacture, sell, and support.

Unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go does not feature a UMD drive, but instead has 16GB of internal flash memory to store games, video, and other media. This can be extended by up to 32GB with the use of a Memory Stick Micro (M2) flash card.

Unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go’s rechargeable battery is not removable or replaceable by the user. 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 a 3.8″ 480×272 LCD (compared to the larger 4.3″ 480×272 pixel LCD on previous PSP models). The screen slides up to reveal the main controls. The overall shape and sliding mechanism are similar to that of Sony’s mylo COM-2 internet device.

Review

Connectivity

The PSP Go features built-in wi-fi, but no longer uses a standard USB A-to-Mini-B cable common with many devices. A new proprietary multi-use connector is used for USB connectivity. A suitable USB cable will be included with the unit.

The new multi-use connector allows for charging and USB similar to previous units, but also allows video and sound output with the same connector (with optional Composite AV cable and Component AV cable), unlike previous offerings which had TV OUT functionality on a separate port to the USB port.

Sony will also be offering an optional cradle for charging and USB data transfer on the PSP Go, similar to previous offerings.

The PSP Go adds support for Bluetooth connectivity, enabling the use of compatible Bluetooth headsets and tethering with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones. This will also enable users to possibly connect and play games using a Sixaxis or DualShock 3 PlayStation 3 controller or Bluetooth headset.

Games

Because the PSP Go does not feature a UMD drive, games are downloaded from the PlayStation Store. While other PSP models have included the ability to run games and demos downloaded from the PlayStation Store, the PSP Go is the first for which this is the only means of distribution.

There are three ways to access the PlayStation Store. The PSP Go can directly download to itself, or users can also download then transfer the games from a PlayStation 3 or the Media Go software on Windows based computers.

All current downloadable PSP and PlayStation games available for older PSP models will be compatible with the PSP Go.

Sony has also confirmed that all UMD based PSP games released after October 1, 2009 will be available for download, and a majority of older UMD-only games will also be downloadable at that time.