Sony updates PSP

SONY COMPUTER said it is about to introduce and updated Playstation Portable in Japan.

The PSP-3000 features an "advanced high contrast LCD" and a built-in microphone and will cost 19,800 yen (£102).

The new PSP will come in Black, White and Silver, and the outfit plans to pump out a load of coloured extras packs to go with the toys.

There is even a new Final Fantasy game coming for the hand-held in the shape of Dissida Final Fantasy and coming from the PS3 game Mainichi Issyo, comes Mainichi Issyo Portable.

Sony said it will also offer a free on-line service which enables users to play PSP software titles featuring ad-hoc mode over the internet through PS3 with other on-line players.

Shawn Layden, president of Sony Computer Entertainment Japan told hacks the Playstation Portable "has become a lifestyle tool for owners."

Rumours that the new super-bright screen would lead to drastically shortened battery life could not be confirmed at time of writing.

The 3000 will wend its way to Europe and the US after its Japanese launch. µ