Rumors are circulating regarding the development of a next-generation portable gaming console by Sony, tentatively dubbed ‘PSP2.’ The potential device represents a significant move in the handheld gaming market, a sector increasingly challenged by smartphones and other portable entertainment options.
According to reports surfacing on January 28, 2011, Sony officially announced the development of the NGP (Next Generation Portable), which is also being referred to as PSP2. The launch was initially planned for the previous year but was delayed to allow for enhancements aimed at differentiating it from competitors like Nintendo’s 3DS and smartphones.
The NGP is expected to incorporate features that have become standard in the mobile device space, including touchscreen functionality. Previously, Sony had resisted adopting touchscreen technology, but the prevalence of touchscreens in smartphones appears to have influenced this decision. The touchscreen will utilize a capacitive system, similar to that found in Apple’s iPhone.
The device is anticipated to feature a 5-inch display with a 16:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 960 x 544 pixels. While not considered high-definition, the display will utilize OLED technology, promising improved image quality compared to the TFT LCD screens found in previous PSP models. Whether the OLED technology will be AMOLED remains unconfirmed.
A video released on January 27, 2011, provides a first look at the device during its unveiling in Japan. You can view the video here.
The PSP-3005 featured a 4.3-inch display; the PSP2’s larger screen and higher resolution suggest a focus on delivering a more immersive gaming experience. The device will also support both Wi-Fi and 3G networks, requiring users to subscribe to a mobile carrier such as NTT DoCoMo in Japan.
Further details regarding the PSP2’s specifications, pricing, and release policies are expected as the launch date approaches. Early reactions to the news have been mixed, with some expressing excitement and others questioning the device’s ability to compete in a rapidly evolving market.
More information about the PSP2’s development can be found here.
