Sony PSP Go

The PSP is back as PSP Go in the handheld video game console market. Unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go does not have a UMD drive, but instead has 16GB of internal flash memory to store games, video and other media. This is extendable 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 replacable or removable. The unit is said to be 43% lighter, 56% smaller than the original PSP-1000 and 16% lighter, 35% smaller than the PSP-3000. It has a 3.8″ LCD screen with a resolution of 480×272 pixels. The screen slides up to reveal the main controls.

The PSP Go has a built-in wi-fi similar to the previous models but has chucked out the standard USB A-to-Mini-B cable port. Now a new proprietary multi-use connector is used for USB connectivity. 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 also offers an optional cradle for charging and USB data transfer.

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

Since the PSP Go does not feature a UMD drive the games are downloadable from the PlayStation Store. The PSP Go can directly download a game 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 the downloadable PSP and PlayStation games available for older PSP models will be compatible with the PSP Go. Sony has also assured that all UMD based PSP games released after October 1, 2009 will also be available for PSP Go in downloadable format.