By Carl Laron on October 28, 2010 in
In our just posted report on hand held game systems, we note that cell phones have become pretty capable portable gaming devices, at least for the casual gamer. Now, it looks like at least one game system maker is about to strike back. Engadget reports that the rumored Sony PlayStation phone is very close to becoming real. The site has posted photographs of a prototype along with some basic information. Availability is expected in 2011, though Engadget holds out very slim hopes that we could see the PSP phone before the upcoming holiday season is over. Of course, one question that's still to be answered is can a hand held game system become a capable cell phone?
A peek inside
The rumored Sony Ericsson PlayStation phone includes a slide-out gaming pad that features standard PSP controls with a few twists. The most notable is what looks to be a long touch control pad. It is expected to include a version of the Google Android operating system and have access to a special marketplace where you can download games. There's a microSD card slot, but no UMD or Memory Stick support. Screen size is around 4 inches (Engadget speculates on a range of from 3.7 to 4.1 inches).
Coming attractions
The PSP phone is a positive development for a hand held game system industry that's been going through a bit of a rough patch of late. Sales are down markedly, and many of the latest "upgrades" have been greeted with yawns and even some boos. As our report outlines, the Nintendo DSi XL added slightly larger video screens to the DSi, but no other new features or functions. That's led experts to say that most DSi owners really don't have a compelling reason to move up to the XL.
For Sony, all reports pretty much agree that the PSP Go has been a near-disaster. This week, Sony announced a $50 price cut for the PSP Go (to $200) to help boost sales ahead of the holidays.
Next year looks like it could be something entirely different, however. In addition to the PSP phone, reports say that the revamped PSP 2 could see the light of day by the 2011 holiday season. There are tons of rumors -- all unconfirmed -- about what's to be included, but some of the more persistent ones suggest a more powerful platform with a larger, high-def display. Some of the more interesting speculation suggests that the PSP could morph into a device that targets Apple devices like the iPhone, with 3G connectivity and other features, such as e-reader software.
Not to be outdone, Nintendo's 3DS, due in the U.S. in March 2011, is certainly piquing interest. As mentioned in our hand held game system report, the big news is the addition of autostereoscopic (i.e., no glasses needed) 3D. Nintendo has already posted details online. Initial reviews of the prototype, such as one at UberGizmo.com, say that the 3D effect is pretty good for a glasses-free approach. In addition to playing games in 3D, there is support for watching 3D movies and built in dual exterior cameras will let owners shoot 3D photos.