Sony Reveals Plans for PSP Handheld Gaming Device

While it has not been reveal how the device is to look, Sony has released details on its feature set and functionality. The PSP display will be a backlit 480x272 pixel TFT LCD widescreen with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It will be powered by a chip featuring the latest 90-nanometer manufacturing technology that boasts better-than-PS1 graphics and 3D capability. The PSP will support both stereo sound and high-quality MPEG4 video. Games will be available on Universal Media Discs (UMD), which are 1.8GB, 60mm optical discs housed in a plastic cartridge. Aside from storing games, UMDs should be able to store a full-length MPEG4 movie or a music album. Finally, the device will offer a USB 2.0 port for connectivity to a PC, PS2, or other PSPs. Specific details on release dates and pricing are expected to be announced at a later date.