Sony officially announces Skype on PSP

by : Christopher Grant, posted Jan 6th 2008 at 5:23PM engadget.com
SOURCE Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

As if we didn't already know, Sony just spit out a press release announcing the availability of Skype on PSP courtesy of a firmware update due later this month. After the update, a Skype icon will be available under the Network menu, allowing users to create a new account or login with their existing one. Otherwise, it's Skype as usual: free calls between Skype users; SkypeOut to make calls to regular old phones; SkypeIn to receive calls on your PSP (just don't answer the phone in front of a potential mate). There is one notable caveat however: Skype will only work on the PSP-2000 (ie: PSP Slim, PSP Lite, PSP Petite). We're not sure if there's a hardware limitation preventing the original PSP from using the service but our best guess is that whatever microphone attachment is released may not be compatible with the older model. Also, no word if Skype functionality will be enabled in-game. More as we hear it, folks.

TOKYO, Jan. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI)
today announced that it would introduce Skype(TM) features to the new slim
and light PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system
(PSP-2000 series). More than 246 million members are registered for the use
of this communications software, which enables users to communicate with
other Skype users around the world over the Internet. Calls between Skype
users are free of charge.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020701/SFM066LOGO )

By introducing Skype on PSP, the following features and services will
be made available to PSP users (*1) (*2):


-- Free voice calls between Skype users
-- Skype contact list management (view existing contacts, add new ones)
-- Skype presence (see which friends are online and available to talk)
-- SkypeOut(TM) calls to make calls to landlines and mobile phones
anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
-- Optional SkypeIn(TM) number that lets users receive calls on Skype from
landlines and mobiles anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of
Skype credit)
-- View and modify Skype settings and account details (including username
creation, SkypeOut settings, voicemail settings and call forwarding)

PSP users worldwide will be able to start using Skype features and
services through a simple system software update scheduled in late January.
After updating the PSP system software, a Skype icon will be added to the
Network category in the home menu. PSP users who do not yet have a Skype
username can register by clicking the icon and following the instructions.
PSP users who already have a Skype username can immediately sign in by
clicking the Skype icon and entering their username and password.

SCEI will deploy various measures to meet users' demand and vigorously
promote the expansion of the PSP platform as a handheld entertainment
system to enjoy a variety of interactive digital entertainment.


* For more information on Skype, please visit http://www.skype.com

(*1) To enjoy Skype features on PSP, users will need Memory Stick Duo(TM),
a wireless Internet connection and a Skype-compatible audio input
device.
(*2) In order to receive calls, users must be connected to the Internet
and signed in through the Skype screen on PSP.
About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the
progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer
Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufacturers, distributes and markets the
PlayStation(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment
system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) handheld entertainment system
and the PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(R)) system. PlayStation has revolutionized
home entertainment by introducing advanced 3D graphic processing, and
PlayStation 2 further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home
networked entertainment. PSP is a new handheld entertainment system that
allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and
high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3 is an advanced computer system,
incorporating the state-of- the-art Cell processor with super computer like
power. SCEI, along with its subsidiary divisions Sony Computer
Entertainment America Inc., Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and
Sony Computer Entertainment Korea Inc. develops, publishes, markets and
distributes software, and manages the third party licensing programs for
these platforms in the respective markets worldwide. Headquartered in
Tokyo, Japan, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. is an independent business
unit of the Sony Group.

PlayStation and PSP are registered trademarks of Sony Computer
Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
Skype, SkypeOut and SkypeIn are trademarks of Skype Technologies S.A. All
other trademarks are property of their respective owners.