Unveiling the latest evolution of PlayStation

Games Convention in Leipzig was a showcase for a wide range of exciting new games and huge announcements on the hardware front.

David Reeves, President Sony Computer Entertainment Euorpe, took to the stage with the words of Bob Dylan on a screen behind him and explained how, in the world of PlayStation, "The Times They Are a Changin'."

His first announcement was that PSP-3000, the latest evolution of the hugely successful handheld, is to launch across Europe in October 2008. It features a brighter screen, allowing developers to access a wider range of colours, and a built-in microphone, which, Reeves pointed out, will allow users to make the most of the PSP system's communication applications, Go!Messenger and Skype.

He then announced that, as of August 22, 2008, an 80GB version of PlayStation 3 will be available across Europe, and that a special edition 160GB version will launch later this year, which comes with a range of PlayStation Network games, tailored for each region.

"If you're the kind of person that has an insatiable thirst for downloadable content and recording your favourite programmes using PlayTV, then this is the version for you," said Reeves.

Keeping with music, video and PlayStation 3, Reeves also announced that a new service called VidZone will be available to PS3 owners in 23 European countries. It offers unlimited access to thousands of music videos from the world's most popular artists, the opportunity to create your own personal library and playlists, and the ability to enjoy your favourite tunes on the move, using Remote Play for PSP. He added that the service will be absolutely free of charge.

Yet another new addition to the PlayStation family is the Wireless Keypad; a mini keyboard attachment that plugs into the Wireless Controller and enables users to enter text more easily. It also features a touchpad mode that will benefit users of the PS3 system's Internet browser.

"The keypad is very compact, easy to use and fully compatible with both DUALSHOCK 3 and SIXAXIS Wireless Controllers," declared Reeves. "It will make services such as Home far more accessible."

PlayStation 3 and PSP already offer access to an incredible range of multimedia entertainment, and after these announcements at the Games Convention, Leipzig, the ways in which PlayStation users can store and enjoy this content are set to become even more flexible and accessible.

IMPORTANT NOTICE
As of 31 March 2009 The Go!Messenger service is no longer available.