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{{Infobox CVG system
| title = PSP (PlayStation Portable)
| logo = [[Image:Sony PSP Logo.svg|250px|center]]
| image= [[Image:Psp1.png|230px]]
| manufacturer = [[Sony Computer Entertainment]]
| family = [[PlayStation (series)|PlayStation]]
| type = [[Handheld game console]]
| generation = [[History of video game consoles (seventh generation)|Seventh generation era]]
| lifespan = {{vgrelease|JP=[[December 12]], [[2004]]}}{{vgrelease|NA=[[March 24]], [[2005]]}}{{vgrelease|PAL=[[September 1]], [[2005]]}}
| CPU = [[MIPS architecture|MIPS]] R4000-based; clocked from 1 to 333 MHz
| media = [[Universal Media Disc|UMD]]
| resolution = 480 x 272
| storage = [[Memory Stick#Memory Stick Duo and PRO Duo|Memory Stick PRO Duo]]
| connectivity = [[Wi-Fi]] ([[IEEE 802.11b-1999|802.11b]]),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://store.station.sony.com/hardgood.jsp?SKU=PSP1R-HG-SW0206-UNLGDS | publisher=Sony | title=Untold Legends: The Warrior's Code | accessdate=2007-06-07}}</ref> [[Infrared Data Association|IrDA]], [[Universal Serial Bus|USB]]
| unitssold = Worldwide: 20.25 million <small>(sold between April 2006 and [[December 31]] [[2007]])</small><ref name="bizdatapsp_sale_e">{{cite web |url=http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/data/bizdatapsp_sale_e.html |title=PSP (PlayStation Portable) Worldwide Hardware Unit Sales |work=Corporate Information |publisher=[[Sony]] |accessdate=2008-01-31}}</ref><ref name="eleki">{{cite web |url=http://www.sony.net/SonyInfo/IR/financial/fr/07q3_eleki.pdf |title=Supplemental Information for FY2007 Earnings |accessdate=2008-01-31 |date=2008-01-31 |publisher=[[Sony Corporation]] |format=[[PDF]]}}</ref> ([[#Sales|details]])
| unitsshipped= Worldwide: 31 million <small>(as of [[February 26]] [[2008]])</small><ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/454 |title=Sony Computer Entertainment America to Unleash Kratos in Limited-Edition God of War PSP Entertainment Pack |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment Inc |date=2008-02-26 |accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref>
| topgame = ''[[Daxter (video game)|Daxter]]'', 2 million <small>(as of [[January 21]] [[2008]])</small><ref>{{cite web | url=http://readyatdawn.com/news.php?offset=0&news_toc=0&pr_toc=0 | title=Daxter... over 2 million served | date=2008-01-21 | publisher=[[Ready at Dawn]] | accessdate=2008-02-05}}</ref>
| successor = [[PlayStation Portable Slim and Lite]] (redesign)
}}

The '''PlayStation Portable''' (officially abbreviated '''PSP''')<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.us.playstation.com/psp/about| title=PSP - About| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> is a [[handheld game console]] manufactured and marketed by [[Sony Computer Entertainment]].<ref name="SCEAspecs">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/psp/about/specs| title=PSP Technical Specifications| publisher="Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> Development of the console was first announced during [[History of E3#During the Rise of Online Gaming (2002-2005)|E3 2003]],<ref name="IGNE32003">{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/402/402220p1.html| title=E3 2003: Sony Goes Handheld!| date=2003-05-13| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> and it was unveiled on [[May 11]], [[2004]] at a Sony press conference before E3&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=228760| title=Sony aims to take on rivals| first=Stanley A.| last=Miller II| date=2004-05-11| publisher=Milwaukee Journal Sentinel| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> The system was released in [[Japan]] on [[December 12]], [[2004]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3137199| title=PSP Japanese launch impressions| date=2004-12-11|<!---> publisher=1UP| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> in [[North America]] on [[March 24]], [[2005]],<ref name="GSUSlaunch">{{cite web| url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/03/24/news_6121009.html| title=The US PSP Launch| date=2005-03-24| first=Tor| last=Thorsen| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> and in the [[PAL region]] on [[September 1]], [[2005]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/cbbcnews/hi/newsid_4200000/newsid_4202900/4202934.stm| title=Sony PSP launches across Europe| date=2005-09-01| publisher=The BBC| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref>

The PlayStation Portable is the first handheld video game console to use an optical disc format, [[Universal Media Disc]] (UMD), as its primary storage media.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamedaily.com/games/playstation-portable/psp/game-news/e3-2003-psp-press-release/4356/3143/| title=E3 2003: PSP Press Release| date=2003-12-31|publisher=gamedaily.com| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/Support/PSP/Movies/default.html| title=Support - PSP - Movies| publisher="Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> Other distinguishing features of the console include its large viewing screen,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gear.ign.com/articles/599/599454p1.html| title=Sony PSP vs. Nintendo DS| date=2005-03-28| first=Chris| last=Roper| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> robust multi-media capabilities,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/Multimedia| title=PSP - About - Multimedia| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> and connectivity with the [[PlayStation 3]], other PSPs, and the [[Internet]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/remoteplay/remoteplay.html| title=User's Guide - Remote Play| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/Support/PSP/ConnectingToInternet/default.html| title=Support - PSP - Connecting to the Internet| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref>

Despite the console's considerable computing power and its formidable multimedia capabilities, sales have consistently lagged behind its main competitor, the [[Nintendo DS]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/psp-vs-ds/8-reasons-why-the-psp-might-overtake-the-ds-327596.php| title=8 reasons why the PSP might overtake the DS| date=2007-11-29| publisher=Gizmodo| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> After the release of a remodeled, slimmer, and lighter version of the PlayStation Portable, appropriately titled [[PlayStation Portable Slim and Lite|Slim and Lite]], in early September 2007, sales quadrupled in the [[United Kingdom]] the following week and increased by nearly 200% in North America for the month of October.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=15555 |title=PSP Slim Release Quadruples UK Sales| date=2007-09-21| publisher=Gamasutra| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3163779| title=September NPD| date=2007-10-18| last=Klepek| first=Patrick| publisher=1UP| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref> Although the PSP has faced very stiff competition from the Nintendo DS, it has been by far the most successful handheld console not manufactured by [[Nintendo]].<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.ocprojects.com/modules.php?name=Content&pa=showpage&pid=56&page=1| title=PSP: Year 1| date= 2005-12-02| publisher=OCprojects| accessdate=2008-03-12}}</ref>

==History==
[[Sony]] first announced development of the PlayStation Portable at a press conference before [[History of E3#During the Rise of Online Gaming (2002-2005)|E3 2003]].<ref name="EuroE32003">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=50290| title=E3 2003: Sony announces PlayStation Portable| date=2003-05-13| first=Tom| last=Bramwell| publisher=Eurogamer| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> Although mock-ups of the system were not present at the press conference or E3,<ref name="EuroE32003" /> Sony did release extensive technical details regarding the new console.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamedaily.com/games/playstation-portable/psp/game-news/e3-2003-psp-press-release/4356/3143/| title=E3 2003: PSP press release| date=2003-12-31| publisher=gamedaily.com| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> Then-CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment [[Ken Kutaragi]] called the device the "Walkman of the 21st Century" in a reference to the console's multimedia capabilities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6027470.html| title=Sony announces PSP handheld| date=2003-05-13| first=Sam| last=Parker| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> Several gaming websites were impressed by the handheld's computing capabilities and looked forward to the system's potential as a gaming platform.<ref name="IGNE32003" /><ref name="EuroE32003" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ps2fantasy.com/news/200305/1052852413.php| title=E3 2003: More details about the PSP| date=2003-05-13| publisher=ps2fantasy.com| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref>

The first concept images of the PlayStation Portable appeared in November 2003 at the Sony Corporate Strategy Meeting and showed a PSP with flat buttons and no analog stick.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=2514| title=Sony's PSP concept model causes a stir| date=2005-11-05|<!--The article says "05-11-2003". It has to be using the British date format because the PSP wasn't announced until 13 May 2003--> last=Fahey| first=Rob| publisher=gamesindustry.biz| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> Although some expressed concern over the lack of an analog joystick,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/457/457945p1.html| title=PSP Concept System| date=2003-11-04| last=Harris| first=Craig| publisher=IGN accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> these fears were allayed when the PSP was officially unveiled at the Sony press conference during E3&nbsp;2004.<ref name="IGNPSPFAQ">{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/513/513175p1.html| title=The PSP FAQ| date=2004-05-28| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> In addition to announcing more details about the system and its accessories,<ref name="GSE32004">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2004/05/11/news_6097116.html| title=Sony shows off the PSP at E3| date=2004-05-11| first=Tor| last=Thorsen| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> Sony also released a list of 99 developer companies that had pledged support for the new handheld.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://play.tm/story/3562| title=E3 2004: Sony debut eagerly-awaited PSP handheld| date=2004-05-11| first=Luke| last=Guttridge| publisher=play.tm| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref> Several PSP game demos, such as [[Konami]]'s [[Metal Gear Acid]] and [[SCE Studio Liverpool]]'s [[Wipeout Pure]] were also shown at the conference.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamepro.com/sony/psp/hardware/features/35590.shtml| title=PSP Hands-On and Software Lineup [E3 2004]| date=2004-05-14| publisher=Gamepro.com| accessdate=2008-03-13}}</ref>
===Launch===
{{main|PlayStation Portable launch}}
On [[October 17]], [[2004]], Sony announced that the PSP would launch in [[Japan]] on [[December 12]], [[2004]] at a price of [[Japanese yen|¥]]19,800 (about [[United States dollar|US$]]185) for the base model and ¥24,800 (about US$230) for the Value System.<ref name="JPlaunchskus">{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/560/560947p1.html| title=Japanese Price and Date set| date=2004-10-17| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> The console's launch was a success with over 200,000 units sold the first day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20041213-4458.html| title=200k pretty sweet purchases during Sony's Japan PSP launch| date=2004-12-13| first=Fred| last=Locklear| publisher=Ars Technica| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref>

Sony announced on [[February 3]], [[2005]], that the PSP would go on sale in [[North America]] on [[March 24]], [[2005]] in one configuration for a [[Suggested retail price|MSRP]] of [[United States dollar|US$]]249/[[Canadian dollar|CA$]]299.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/250| title=PSP™ (PlayStation® Portable) set to release on March 24 across North America| date=2005-02-03| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> Some expressed concern over the high price,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/584/584983p1.html| title=PSP US Launch Date and Price Revealed| date=2005-02-03| first=Matt| last=Casamassina| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> which was almost US$20 higher than the system's price in Japan and more than $100 higher than the recently launched [[Nintendo DS]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theregister.co.uk/2005/02/04/sony_psp_us_launch/| title=Sony names US PSP launch date, price| date=2005-02-04| first=Tony| last=Smith| publisher=The Register| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> Despite the concerns, the PSP's North American launch was a success,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/598/598595p1.html| title=PSP Launch: The Sony Metreon| date=2005-03-24| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/03/24/news_6121009.html| title=Spot On: The US PSP Launch| date=2005-03-24| author=Thorsen, Tor; Tim Surette| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> although reports two weeks later indicated that the system was not selling as well as expected despite Sony's claim that 500,000 units had been sold in the first two days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.technewsworld.com/story/42013.html| title=Sony PSP Sales get off to lackluster start| date=2004-04-05| first=Jay| last=Lyman| publisher=technewsworld.com| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/268| title=PSP™ (PlayStation® Portable) sells more than a half milion units in its first two days| date=2005-04-06| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref>

The PSP was originally to have a simultaneous [[PAL region]] and North American launch,<ref name="GSE32004" /> but on [[March 15]], [[2005]], Sony announced that the PAL region launch would be delayed because of high demand for the console in Japan and North America.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamingworldx.com/news/PSPReleasePostponedinEurop.shtml| title=PSP Release Postponed in Europe| date=2005-03-15| publisher=GamingWorldX| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> A month later, on [[April 25]], [[2005]], Sony announced that the PSP would launch in the PAL region on [[September 1]], [[2005]] for [[Euro|€]]249/[[Pound sterling|£]]179.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/news/news.phtml/1154/2178/view.phtml| title=Sony sets launch date in Europe for PSP| date=2005-04-25| first=Stuart| last=Miles| publisher=pocket-lint.co.uk| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> Sony defended the high price, which was nearly US$100 higher than in North America, by pointing out that North American consumers had to pay local [[sales tax]]es and that the [[Value added tax|GST]] was higher in the UK than the US.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4481991.stm| title=PSP European launch in September| date=2005-03-26| publisher=The BBC| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> Despite the high price, the console's PAL region launch was a resounding success, selling more than 185,000 units in the [[United Kingdom|UK]] alone, more than doubling the previous first-day sales record of 87,000 units set by the [[Nintendo DS]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/09/06/news_6132597.html| title=PSP breaks UK sales record| date=2005-09-06| first=Tim| last=Surette| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate-2008-03-15}}</ref> The system also enjoyed great success in other areas of the PAL region with more than 25,000 units preordered in [[Australia]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/2005/08/31/news_6132318.html| title=PSP hits Oceania and Europe| date=2005-08-31| first=Tim| last=Surette| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref> and nearly one million units sold across [[Europe]] in the first week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://play.tm/story/6430| title=European PSP sells big| date=2005-09-05| first=Luke| last=Guttridge| publisher=Play.tm| accessdate=2008-03-15}}</ref>

==Variations==
===Retail configurations===
<div style="font-size: 90%;float:right;border-left:1em solid white">
{|class="wikitable"
|+PSP Core Pack price history

|-
|colspan="3" align="center"|Dates are when the price first took effect<br />(Previous prices greyed out)
|-
!Country
!Price
!Date
|-bgcolor="#cccccc"
| United States
| [[United States dollar|US$]]199.99
| [[March 22]], [[2006]]<ref name="SCEApspcore">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/334| title=Sony Computer Entertainment America announces new PSP (PlayStation Portable) model for $199.99| date=2006-03-15| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>
|-
| United States
| [[United States dollar|US$]]169.99
| [[April 3]], [[2007]]<ref name="NAprice" />
|-
| Hong Kong
| [[Hong Kong Dollar|HK$]]1,280<br />[[Hong Kong Dollar|HK$]]1,360
| ''current price''<ref name="HKprice" />
|-
| South Korea
| [[Korean won|₩]]198,000
| [[April 26]], [[2007]]<ref name="WWpricedrop">{{cite web|url=http://www.psp-vault.com/Article930.psp/| title=PSP price drops in Korea| date=2007-04-19| publisher=PSPvault.com| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>
|-
|-bgcolor="#cccccc"
| Europe
| [[Euro|€]]199,99
| [[September 1]] [[2005]]<ref name="SCEEpress">{{cite web|url=http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=3804&NewsAreaID=2| title=PlayStation Portable To Launch Across Europe on 1st September 2005| date=2005-04-26| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>
|-
| Europe
| [[Euro|€]]169,99
| [[May 4]], [[2007]]<ref name="UKEUprice" />
|- bgcolor="#cccccc"
| Canada
| [[Canadian dollar|CA$]]229.99
| [[March 22]], [[2006]]<ref name="SCEApspcore" />
|-
| Canada
| [[Canadian dollar|CA$]]169.99
| [[April 3]], [[2007]]<ref name="WWpricedrop" />
|- bgcolor="#cccccc"
| India
| [[Indian Rupee|Rs]]19,990
| [[September 1]], [[2005]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.techtree.com/techtree/jsp/article.jsp?article_id=67380&cat_id=585| title=Milestone Releases 8 PSP Games| date=2005-09-05| publisher=Techtree.com| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>
|-
| India
| [[Indian Rupee|Rs]]8,990
| ''current price''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.techtree.com/India/News/40GB_PS3_Unveiled_at_Sonys_Expo/551-84712-585.html| title=40GB PS3 Unveiled at Sony's Expo| date=2007-11-25| publisher=Techtree.com| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>
|-bgcolor="#cccccc"
| Australia
| [[Australian dollar|AU$]]349.95
| [[September 1]], [[2005]]<ref name="AUpricedrop">{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/crazy-prices/australia-gets-belated-psp-price-cut-camera-details-263141.php| title=Australia Gets Belated PSP Price Cut, Camera Details| date=2007-05-24| first=Luke| last=Plunkett| publisher=Kotaku| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>
|-
| Australia
| [[Australian dollar|AU$]]279.95
| [[May 24]], [[2007]]<ref name="AUpricedrop" />
|-bgcolor="#cccccc"
|-
| Singapore
| [[Singapore Dollar|S$]]280.00
| ''current price''<ref name="SPprice" />
|-
|-bgcolor="#cccccc"
| United Kingdom
| [[Pound sterling|£]]179.99
| [[September 1]] [[2005]]<ref name="SCEEpress" />
|-
| United Kingdom
| [[Pound sterling|£]]129.99
| [[May 4]], [[2007]]<ref name="UKEUprice" />
|}
</div>
The PSP is sold in two main configurations that differ in which accessories are included. The basic unit package or Base Pack (called the Core Pack in North America<ref name="NAprice" />) contains the console, a battery, and an AC adapter.<ref name="SCEAskus">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/psp/about/productdetails| title= PSP - About PSP - Product details| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> This version was available at launch in Japan<ref name="JPlaunchskus" /> and was later released in North America and Europe.<ref name="psp199">{{cite news | url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/696/696068p1.html | title=PlayStation Portable Price Lowered to $200:New basic bundle for Sony hand held due later this month | first=Jeff| last= Haynes | publisher=IGN |date=15 March 2006}}</ref> The Core Pack retails for [[Canadian dollar|CA$]]/[[United States dollar|US$]]169.99,<ref name="NAprice">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/391| title=Sony Computer Entertainment America Unveils New Price for PSP® (PlayStation®Portable)| date=2007-04-03| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> [[Japanese yen|¥]]19,800,<ref name="JPprice">{{cite web|url=http://www.jp.playstation.com/hardware/psp/| title=PSP - Hardware - PSP (Japanese)| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> [[Hong Kong dollar|HK$]]1,280 or $1,360 (depending on the color),<ref name="HKprice">{{cite web|url=http://asia.playstation.com/eng_hk/index.php?q=psp/hardware| title=PSP Hardware - PlayStation.com (Asia) - Hong Kong| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> [[Singapore dollar|S$]]280,<ref name="SPprice">{{cite web|url=http://asia.playstation.com/eng_sg/index.php?q=psp/hardware| title=PSP Hardware - PlayStation.com (Asia) - Singapore| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> [[Australian dollar|AU$]]279.95,<ref name="AUprice">{{cite web|url=http://au.playstation.com/psp/hw/psp_base_pack.jhtml| title=PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) - Base Pack| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> [[New Zealand dollar|NZ$]]299.95,<ref name="NZprice">{{cite web|url=http://www.nz.playstation.com/psp/hw/psp_base_pack.jhtml| title=PSP® Slim & Lite (PlayStation®Portable) Base Pack| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> [[Euro|€]]169.99, and [[Pound sterling|£]]129.99.<ref name="UKEUprice">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6169518.html| title=Euro PSP price drops| date=2007-04-23| first=Emma| last=Boyes| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref>

The Value Pack includes everything in the Base Pack as well as a 32&nbsp;[[Megabyte|MB]] [[Memory Stick Pro Duo]], headphones with remote control, a carrying pouch, and a wrist strap.<ref name="SCEAskus" /> Some regions have modified versions of this pack that include different accessories.<ref name="NZvalpack" /> The Value Pack retails for US$199,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/407| title=Sony Computer Entertainment America to Offer Limited-Edition Entertainment Packs With Newly Designed PSP®(PlayStation®Portable)| date=2007-07-11| publisher=Sony Somputer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> ¥26,040,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jp.playstation.com/info/release/nr_20080304_pspj20002.html| title=PSP - Hardware - PSP (Japanese)| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=1008-03-18}}</ref> HK$1660,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://asia.playstation.com/eng_hk/index.php?q=psp/hardware&page=1| title=PlayStation .com - Hong Kong - PSP Hardware| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> AU$399.95,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://au.playstation.com/psp/hw/psp_value_pack.jhtml| title=PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) - 4GB Media Manager Edition| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> and NZ$449.95.<ref name="NZvalpack">{{cite web|url=http://www.nz.playstation.com/psp/hw/psp_value_pack.jhtml| title=PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) - 4GB Media Manager Edition| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref>

Many limited edition versions of the PSP that include various accessories, games, or movies have also been released.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6136208.html| title=Sony readies new PSP bundle| date=2005-10-20| first=Tim| last=Surette| publisher=GameSpot| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-psp-star-wars/4505-10109_7-32578718.html| title=Sony PSP Star Wars Battlefront Entertainment Pack| date=2007-09-04| first=John P.| last=Falcone| publisher=CNET| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref>

===Colors===
The PSP is currently available in nine colors. These include piano black, ceramic white, icy silver, rose pink, deep red, champagne gold, felicia blue, mint green, and lavender purple. Only the piano black model is available in all regions.<ref name="PSPcol">{{cite web|url=http://www.psp-vault.com/module-htmlpages-display-pid-35.psp| title=Official PSP Colors| publisher=PSPVault.com| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> The icy silver, ceramic white, and deep red versions are available as stand-alone models in Asia<ref name="PSPcol" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/japan/new-psp-color-deep-red-319317.php| title=New PSP color "Deep Red"| date=2007-11-06| first=Brian| last=Ashcraft| publisher=Kotaku| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> and as part of the "Daxter", "Star Wars Battlefront", and "God of War" entertainment packs in North America (with a [[Darth Vader]] silkscreen on the ceramic white model and a [[Kratos (God of War)|Kratos]] silkscreen on the deep red model).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/07/11/we%e2%80%99re-just-getting-started%e2%80%a6/| title=We're just getting started...| date=2007-07-11| first=Jack| last=Tretton| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/02/26/destination-playstation-news-mgs-ps3-bundle-kratos-psp-and-dualshock3-release-date-by/| title="Destination PlayStation News| date=2008-02-26| first=Al| last=De Leon| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> The rose pink, champagne gold, felicia blue, and lavender purple versions are only available in Asia<ref name="PSPcol" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jp.playstation.com/info/release/nr_20070110_psp1000cg.html| title= Gold champagne PSP to release on February 22, 2007 (Japanese)| date=2007-01-10| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> and the mint green model is exclusive to Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/342587/japan-gets-new-mint-green-psp| title=Japan gets new mint green PSP| date=2008-01-08| first=Luke| last=Plunkett| publisher=Kotaku| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> Several other special edition models, such as the [[Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops]] camouflage PSP, have also been released.<ref name="PSPcol" /> The metallic blue, pink, and silver colors have been discontinued.<ref name="PSPcol" />

===PSP Slim and Lite===
[[Image:Psp slim & lite.png|thumb|The PSP Slim and Lite, in silver]]
{{main|PlayStation Portable Slim and Lite}}
At [[History of E3#2007|E3 2007]], Sony released information that a new version of the PSP would be released in September 2007, for all regions.<ref name="NAprice" /> The redesigned PSP is 33% lighter and 19% thinner than the original PSP. The redesign also features composite TV Output, supports charging via [[Universal Serial Bus|USB]], double the onboard RAM (32&nbsp;MB to 64&nbsp;MB), and has a brighter screen.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/406| title=Sony Computer Entertainment America Outlines Plans for PlayStation® Platforms at E3 2007| date=2007-07-11| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref> It also [[cache]]s [[Universal Media Disc|UMD]] data in memory to decrease game loading times. The WLAN switch has been moved to the top where the old IR receiver was to avoid accidental switching, and the speakers have been moved from the bottom of the screen to nearer the top, to prevent users from accidentally blocking the speakers with their hands.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/sony-psp/| title=Review: Sony PSP (black/slim)| date=2007-09-10| first=John P.| last=Falcone| publisher=CNET| accessdate=2008-03-18}}</ref>

==Sales==<!-- This section is linked from this article's infobox -->
As of [[March 31]], [[2007]], the PSP has shipped 25.39&nbsp;million units worldwide with 6.92&nbsp;million in Asia, 9.58&nbsp;million in North America, and 8.89&nbsp;million Europe.<ref name="sonyshipped">{{cite web |url=http://www.scei.co.jp/corporate/data/bizdatapsp_e.html |title=PSP (PlayStation Portable) Cumulative Production Shipments of Hardware |publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment Inc |accessdate=2007-02-28}}</ref> In Europe, the PSP sold 4&nbsp;million units [[2006 in video gaming#Europe|in 2006]] and 3.1&nbsp;million [[2007 in video gaming#Europe|in 2007]] according to estimates by [[Electronic Arts]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/IROL/88/88189/Q3FY08SupSeg.pdf#page=5 |title=Supplemental Segment Information |accessdate=2008-02-09 |author=[[Electronic Arts]] |date=2008-01-31 |work=[[Thomson Financial]] |pages=5 |format=[[PDF]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=17206 |title=EA Reveals European Hardware Estimates |accessdate=2008-02-09 |first=David|last= Jenkins |date=2008-02-01 |work=[[Gamasutra]] |publisher=[[CMP Media]]}}</ref> In Japan, during the week of [[March 24]] – [[March 30]], [[2008]], the PSP nearly outsold all the other game consoles combined with 129,986 units sold, some of which were bundled with ''[[Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G]]'',<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/375954/simple-2000-the-japanese-hardware-chart-holy-crap-psp-edition |publisher=[[Kotaku]] |title=Simple 2000: The Japanese Hardware Chart: Holy Crap, PSP Edition |author=Michael McWhertor |date=2008-04-03 |accessdate=2008-04-04}}</ref> which was the best-selling game in that week, according to [[Media Create]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/375738/simple-2000-the-japanese-software-chart |publisher=[[Kotaku]] |title=Simple 2000: The Japanese Software Chart |author=Michael McWhertor |date=2008-04-03 |accessdate=2008-04-04}}</ref>

<!--DO NOT CHANGE these numbers without a reference-->
<!--VGCHARTS.COM and NEXGENWARS.COM are NOT reliable sources-->
{| class="wikitable" style="margin-left:1em;margin-right:0"
|-
! Region !! Units sold !! First available
|-
|[[Japan]]
|8,574,026 <small>(as of [[March 30]], [[2008]])</small><ref>{{cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/375495/japanese-people-love-nintendo-software |title=Japanese People Love Nintendo Software |author=Brian Ashcraft |date=2008-04-03 |work=[[Kotaku]] |publisher=[[Gawker Media]] |accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/1214483_1124.html |title=2007年度のゲーム市場は6769億5000万円、前年度比103.8パーセントの伸びを記録 |language=Japanese |date=2008-04-03 |work=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |accessdate=2008-04-19}}</ref>
|[[December 12]], [[2004]]
|-
|[[United States]]
|10.47 million <small>(as of [[January 1]], [[2008]])</small><ref>{{cite web | url=http://kotaku.com/346301/whos-winning-the-console-war-in-the-us | title=Who's Winning The Console War In The US? | first=Michael| last=McWhertor | publisher=[[Kotaku]] | accessdate=2008-01-19 | date=2008-01-18}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamedaily.com/articles/news/npd-us-video-game-industry-totals-1794-billion-halo-3-tops-all/19119/?biz=1 |title=NPD: U.S. Video Game Industry Totals $17.94 Billion, Halo 3 Tops All |accessdate=2008-01-19 |first=James|last= Brightman |date=2008-01-17 |publisher=GameDaily}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=17006 | title=NPD: 2007 U.S. Game Industry Growth Up 43% To $17.9 Billion | first=Brandon|last= Boyer | publisher=[[Gamasutra]] | accessdate=2008-01-19 | date=2008-01-18}}</ref>
|[[March 24]], [[2005]]
|-
|'''Worldwide'''
|20.25 million <br /><small>(sold between April 2006 and [[December 31]], [[2007]])</small><ref name="bizdatapsp_sale_e"/><ref name="eleki"/>

|
|}

==Hardware==
{{main|PlayStation Portable hardware}}
[[Image:DSCF0510.jpg|thumb|A ceramic white PSP. The shoulder buttons are on top, the directional pad on the left with the analog 'nub' directly below it, the PlayStation face buttons on the right and a row of secondary buttons below the screen.]]
The PlayStation Portable measures approximately 17 x 7.3 x 2.2&nbsp;cm (6.7 x 2.9 x 0.9&nbsp;in) and weighs 280&nbsp;grams (9.88&nbsp;ounces). The front of the console is dominated by the system's 11&nbsp;cm (4.3&nbsp;in) [[LCD]] screen, which is capable of 480 x 272&nbsp;pixel video playback with 16.77&nbsp;million colors. Also on the front are the four PlayStation face buttons ([[Image:PlayStationTriangle.svg|Triangle]], [[Image:PlayStationCircle.svg|Circle]], [[Image:PlayStationX.svg|X]], [[Image:PlayStationSquare.svg|Square]]), the directional pad, the analog 'nub', and several other buttons. In addition, the system includes two shoulder buttons and a [[Universal Serial Bus#USB 2.0|USB 2.0 mini-B]] port on the top of the console and a [[Wireless LAN Network|WLAN]] switch and power cable input on the bottom. The back of the PSP features a read-only [[Universal Media Disc|UMD]] drive for movies and games, and a reader compatible with Sony's [[Memory Stick|Memory Stick Duo]] [[Flash memory|flash card]]s is located on the left of the system. Other features include an [[Infrared Data Association|IrDA]] compatible infrared port, built in stereo speakers and headphone port, and [[IEEE 802.11b-1999|IEEE 802.11b]] [[Wi-Fi]] for access to the [[Internet]], ad-hoc multiplayer gaming, and data transfer.<ref name="SCEAspecs" />

The PSP uses a 333&nbsp;[[Hertz|MHz]] MIPS R4000&nbsp;(32-bit) [[Central processing unit|CPU]], a [[Graphics processing unit|GPU]] with 2&nbsp;[[Megabyte|MB]] onboard [[Dynamic random access memory#Video DRAM (VRAM)|VRAM]] running at 166&nbsp;MHz, and includes 32&nbsp;MB main [[Random access memory|RAM]] and 4&nbsp;MB embedded [[Dynamic random access memory|DRAM]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/542/542182p1.html| title=A New Tast of the PSP chips| date=2004-08-25| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref><ref name="SCEAspecs" /> The CPU was originally locked to run slower than the hardware was capable of and most games ran at 222&nbsp;MHz.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3160506| title=PSP Brought up to Speed with 3.50 firmware| date=2007-06-22| first=Andrew| last=Hayward| publisher=1UP| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> However, with firmware update 3.50 on [[May 31]], [[2007]], Sony removed this limit and allowed new games to run at a full 333&nbsp;MHz.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/47564| title=Sony Confirms Full PSP CPU Speed| date=2007-06-22| first=Chris| last=Faylor| publisher=Shacknews| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref>

The PSP includes an 1800 [[Ampere-hour|mAh]] battery that will provide about 4-6&nbsp;hours of gameplay, 4-5&nbsp;hours of video playback, or 8-11&nbsp;hours of audio playback.<ref name="IGNPSPFAQ" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/574/574557p6.html| title=Hard Charging: PSP Battery life – page 6| date=2004-12-20| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref> Official accessories for the console include the AC adapter, car adapter, headset, headphones with remote control, extended-life 2200 mAh battery, battery charger, carrying case, accessories pouch and cleaning cloth, and system pouch and wrist strap.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/Accessories| title=PSP Accessories| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-17}}</ref>

==Software==
===System Software===
{{main|PlayStation Portable System Software}}
Sony has included the ability for the operating system, referred to as the ''System Software'', to be updated.<ref name="SYSupdate">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate| title=PSP - About - System Update| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> The updates can be downloaded directly from the [[Internet]] using the Network Update feature, or they can be downloaded from the official PlayStation website to a computer, transferred to a [[Memory Stick Duo]], and subsequently installed on the system. Updates can also be installed from [[Universal Media Disc|UMD]] game discs that require the update to run the game.<ref name="SYSupdate" />

While system software updates can be used with consoles from any region,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.trejan.com/projects/psp/| title=Projects - Sony PSP| publisher=trejan.com| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> Sony recommends only downloading system software updates released for the region corresponding to the system's place of purchase.<ref name="SYSupdate" /> System software updates have added various features including a web browser,<ref name="v200">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update200| title=PSP System Software version 2.00| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> [[Adobe Flash Player|Adobe Flash]] support,<ref name="v270">{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update270| title=PSP System Software version 2.70| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> additional codecs for images, audio, and video,<ref name="v200" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update260| title=PSP System Software version 2.60| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> [[PlayStation 3]] connectivity,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update303| title=PSP System Software version 3.00| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> as well as patches against several security exploits, vulnerabilities, and execution of [[Homebrew (video games)|homebrew]] programs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update152| title=PSP System Software version 1.52| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update282| title=PSP System Software version 2.82| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> It is currently at v3.95.

===Graphical User Interface===
[[Image:XMBPSP.jpg|thumb|right|The PSP's [[XrossMediaBar]] interface]]
{{main|XrossMediaBar#Playstation Portable XMB|l1=XrossMediaBar - Playstation Portable XMB}}
The PSP's version of the [[XrossMediaBar]] (pronounced ''Cross Media Bar'' and abbreviated XMB) includes six categories of options. These include Settings, Photo, Music, Video, Game, and Network.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/index.html| title=Manuals - PSP| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref> The PSP has the capability to play photo slideshows and audio and video files stored on a [[Memory Stick]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/photo/s_start.html| title=PSP - Photo - Playing slideshows| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/music/music.html| title=PSP - Music - Listening to music| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/video/video.html| title=PSP - Video - Watching a video| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref> monitor and save content from [[RSS]] channels,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/network/rss/savecontent.html| title=PSP - Network - RSS - Saving content| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref> and send and receive photos wirelessly with other PSPs while in ad-hoc mode.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/photo/send.html| title=PSP - Photo - Sending and receiving images| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref> The PSP also includes the ability to customize the appearance of the XMB with different colors, photos, or themes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/settings/index_theme.html| title=PSP - Settings - Theme settings| publisher=2008-03-21}}</ref> Although the XMB can be accessed at any time by pressing the Home button,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/Support/PSP/GettingStarted/s_psp_gs_MM.html| title=PSP - Using the XMB| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref> the currently running application will exit before showing the interface (with the exception of a photo slideshow).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/support/psp/gettingstarted/s_psp_gs_CT.html#gameplay| title=Getting started - Button functions| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/About/SystemUpdate/history.html#update370| title=PSP update 3.70| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-21}}</ref> It is now also possible to change the appearance of the PSP with "theme" files, with there being few official ones mostly user made, though legitimate, theme files.

===Web browser===
[[Image:PSP Web Browser.png|thumb|170px|right|The PSP web browser]]
The PSP Internet Browser is an [[embedded system|embedded]] [[Mobile browser|microbrowser]] that was released for free with the 2.00 system software update.<ref name="v200" /> The browser supports most common web technologies, such as [[HTTP cookie]]s, [[Form (web)|form]]s, [[Cascading Style Sheets|CSS]], as well as basic [[JavaScript]] capabilities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/network/browser/menu.html| title=PSP - Network - Internet Browser - Displaying the menu| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>

Version 2.70 of the PSP's system software introduced basic [[Adobe Flash|Flash]] capabilities to the browser.<ref name="v270" /> However, the player runs Flash version 6, three iterations behind the current desktop version 9,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer/| title=Adobe Flash Player| publisher=Adobe Systems| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> making some websites difficult to view.<ref name="v270" /> The browser also has limited [[Tabbed document interface|tabbed browsing]] support, with a maximum of three tabs. Pages are opened in new tabs either when a website tries to open a link in a new window using the HTML command <code>target="blank"</code> or when the user selects a link and holds down "[[Image:PlayStationX.svg|X]]" rather than just tapping it.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/network/browser/tab.html| title=PSP - Network - Internet Browser - Tabs| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> The browser can now read [[.txt]] files.

===Remote Play===
{{main|Remote Play}}
Remote Play allows the PSP to access many features of a [[PlayStation 3]] console from a remote location using the PS3's [[WLAN]] capabilities, a home network, or the [[Internet]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/network/remoteplay/index.html| title=PSP - Remote Play| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-26}}</ref> Features that can be used with Remote Play include viewing photos and slideshows, listening to music, watching videos stored on the PS3's [[Hard disc drive|HDD]], and several other features.<ref name="aboutRP">{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/network/remoteplay/ps3set.html| title=PSP - Remote Play - About Remote Play| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-26}}</ref> Additionally, Remote Play allows the PS3 to be turned on and off remotely and allows the PSP to control audio playback from the PS3 to a home theater system without having to use a [[television]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/network/remoteplay/menu.html| title=PSP - Remote Play - menu| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-26}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/settings/outputdevice.html| title=PS3 - Settings - Audio Output Device| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-26}}</ref> Although most of the PS3's cababilities are accessible with Remote Play, playback of [[DVD]]s, [[Blu-ray Disc]]s, most [[PlayStation 2]] and PlayStation&nbsp;3 games, and copy-protected files stored on the PS3's hard drive is not supported.<ref name="aboutRP" />

==Games==
{{main|List of PlayStation Portable games}}
{{seealso|PlayStation Store|List of PlayStation Network games|List of PlayStation Portable game demos|List of Sony Greatest Hits games}}
In addition to playing PSP games, several [[PlayStation]] games have been rereleased and can be downloaded and played on the PSP via emulation. Currently, the only two official ways to access this feature is through the [[PlayStation Network]] service for [[PlayStation 3]] or a PC.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/psp/current/game/psntitledl.html| title=PSP - Game - Downloading PlayStation® format software| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>

Demos for commercial PSP games can be downloaded and booted directly from a [[Memory Stick]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/11/20/introducing-the-playstation-store-for-pc/| title=Introducing the PlayStation Store for PC| date=2007-11-20| first=Eric| last=Lempel| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> Demos are also sometimes issued in [[Universal Media Disc|UMD]] format and mailed out or given to customers at various retail outlets as promotional content.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/09/27/god-of-war-chains-of-olympus-special-edition-demo-disc/| title=God of War: Chains of Olympus - Special Edition Demo Disc| date=2007-09-27| first=Cory| last=Barlog| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>

During [[E3]] 2006, Sony Computer Entertainment America announced that the Greatest Hits range of budget titles were to be extended to the PSP system.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://psp.ign.com/articles/705/705786p1.html| title=PSP Greatest Hits Program to be Launched| date=2006-05-08| first=Jeff| last=Haynes| publisher=IGN| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> On [[July 25]], [[2006]], Sony CEA released the first batch of [[List of Sony Greatest Hits games|Greatest Hits]] titles.<ref name="GHpress">{{cite web | url=http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/344 | title="Greatest Hits" titles for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system now available| date=2006-07-25| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> The PSP Greatest Hits lineup consist of games that have sold 250,000 copies or more and have been out for nine months.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scea.com/News/PressReleases/127| title=Sony Computer Entertainment America expands extensive "Greatest Hits" software library| date=2003-09-10| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> PSP games in this lineup retails for $19.99 each.<ref name="GHpress" />

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe announced on [[September 5]], [[2006]], that a number of titles would be available under the [[Platinum range]] for €24.99 each in Europe and £19.99 in the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scee.presscentre.com/Content/Detail.asp?ReleaseID=4190&NewsAreaID=2| title=Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Announces Introduction of Platinum Range for PSP| date=2006-09-05| publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>

==Homebrew development==
{{main|PlayStation Portable homebrew}}
In late April 2005, hackers began to discover the intricacies of the [[file system]] used on PSP [[Universal Media Disc|UMD]] game discs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.ps2dev.org/viewtopic.php?t=1585| title=UMD file system access| date=2005-05-06| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> By early May 2005, the first "[[Hello world program|Hello World!]]" programs had been run on the PSP and the full capabilities of the system began to be opened to the homebrew community.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pics.oopo.net/?2005/20050505| title=Hello PSP!| date=2005-05-05| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> Later exploits have allowed for PSPs using later versions of Sony's firmware to run homebrew applications,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.psp-homebrew.eu/homebrew.php| title=PSP Homebrew - View All| publisher=psp-homebrew.eu| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> and development of new exploits to bypass new restrictions to limit unauthorized programs is ongoing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dark-alex.org/| title=M33 PSP Homebrew by Dark_Alex| publisher=dark-alex.org| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> Utilizing homebrew applications allows for a significant increase in functionality on the PSP, such as [[Free Lossless Audio Codec|FLAC]] and [[Vorbis|Ogg Vorbis]] audio playback,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forums.maxconsole.net/archive/index.php/t-17453.html| title=PSPlayerMT for PSP: Multi-Format Quality media Playback for PSP| date=2006-03-16| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> emulation of dozens of different video game systems,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wired.com/gaming/gamingreviews/news/2005/06/67742| title=PSP Hackers Go Retro| date=2005-06-07| first=Chris| last=Kohler| publisher=Wired| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> and [[e-book]] viewing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.download.com/Psp-Ebook-Creator/3000-2125_4-10499628.html| title=PSP Ebook Creator| publisher=download.com| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> Since the creation of the [[PlayStation Portable homebrew#Pandora's Battery|Pandora's Battery]] software by a conglomeration of PSP homebrew developers, any PSP may be hacked to utilize homebrew software, regardless of its firmware version, as the hack uses the psp's service mode, which loads before the firmware.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.noobz.eu/joomla/news/pandoras-battery.html| title=Pandora's Battery| date=2007-08-22| publisher=Noobz.eu| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>

==Reception==
The PSP received generally favorable reviews soon after launch and most reviewers cited similar strengths and weaknesses. [[CNET]] awarded the system an 8.1 out of 10 and praised the console's powerful hardware and its multimedia capabilities while lamenting the lack of a screen guard or a guard over the reading surface of UMD cartridges.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/consoles/sony-psp/4505-10109_7-30895581.html| title=Sony PSP Review| date=2005-03-24| first=David| last=Carnoy| publisher=CNET| accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> [[Engadget]] applauded the console's design, stating that "it is definitely one well-designed, slick little handheld".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.engadget.com/2004/12/20/sony-playstation-portable-psp-hands-on-review/| title=Sony PlayStation Portable/PSP hands-on review| date=2004-12-20| first=Adam| last=Nielson| publisher=CNET| accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> [[PC World (magazine)|PC World]] commended [[Sony]]'s decision to include built-in [[Wi-fi]] capabilities while lamenting lack of a web browser at launch and the glare and smudges that resulted from the console's shiny exterior.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pcworld.com/article/id,120117-page,1/article.html| title=First Look: Sony's Impressive PlayStation Portable| date=2005-03-18| first=Andrew| last=Brandt| publisher=PC World| accessdate=2008-03-31}}</ref> Most reviewers also praised the console's large and bright viewing screen and its audio and video playback capabilities.

==Controversial advertising campaigns==
*Sony admitted in late 2005 to hiring [[graffiti]] artists to spray paint advertisements for the PSP in seven major U.S. cities including [[New York City]], [[Philadelphia, Pennsylvania|Philadelphia]], and [[San Francisco, California|San Francisco]]. The mayor of Philadelphia has filed a [[cease and desist]] order and may file a criminal complaint. According to Sony, it is paying businesses and building owners for the right to graffiti their walls.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wired.com/culture/lifestyle/news/2005/12/69741| title=Sony Draws Ire With PSP Graffiti| date=2005-12-05| first=Ryan| last=Singel| publisher=Wired| accessdate=2008-03-19}}<sup>Superscript text</sup></ref>

*In 2006, Sony ran a poster campaign in [[England]]. One of the poster designs with the slogan "Take a running jump here" was removed from a [[Manchester Piccadilly station]] tram platform due to concerns that it might encourage suicide.<ref>{{cite news | title=No play station, say Metro bosses | publisher=[[Manchester Evening News]] | date=[[2006-03-07]] | url=http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/206/206881_no_play_station_say_metro_bosses.html | first=Clarissa| last= Satchell | accessdate=2007-03-14}}</ref>

*News spread on in July 2006 of a billboard advertisement released in the [[Netherlands]] which depicted a literally white colored woman holding a similarly literally black colored woman by the jaw, saying "PlayStation Portable White is coming." Some found this to be racially charged due to the portrayal of a white woman subjugating a black woman. Two other similar advertisements also existed, one had the two women facing each other on equal footing in fighting stances, while the other had the black woman in a dominant position on top of the white woman. The stated purpose of the advertisements was to contrast the white and black versions of its game console available for sale. These ads were never released in the rest of the world, and were pulled from the Netherlands after the controversy was raised.<ref name="cnn">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=18101|title=Sony defends PSP ad following accusations of racism | publisher=gamesindustry.biz| date=2006-07-05| first=Ellie| last=Gibson| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref>

*Sony came under scrutiny online in December 2006 for a [[guerrilla marketing]] campaign hoping to go [[viral marketing|viral]], for the console, with advertisers masquerading as young bloggers who desperately wanted a PSP. The site was registered to and created by youth marketing company [[Zipatoni]] on behalf of Sony before it was taken down.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/sony-marketers-are-horrible-liars-pretend-to-run-fansite/| title=Sony Marketers pretend to run fansite| date=2006-12-11| first=Blake|last=Snow| publisher=JoyStiq| accessdate=2008-03-19}}</ref> A [[Mirror (computing)|mirror]] of the blog can be found [http://www.ukresistance.co.uk/sonylieblog/default.aspx.htm here].

==See also==
{{Portal|Sony PlayStation}}
* [[Mylo (Sony)|Mylo]] – A Sony messaging device similar to the PSP
* [[List of handhelds with Wi-Fi connectivity]]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{commonscat|PlayStation Portable}}
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;Official websites
* [http://uk.playstation.com/psp/ Official PSP website] (Europe/UK)
* [http://www.us.playstation.com/PSP Official PSP website] (US)
* [http://au.playstation.com/psp/index.jhtml Official PSP website] (Aus/NZ)

;Reviews
* [http://www.mp3newswire.net/stories/5002/psp_review.html Sony PSP As Personal Media Player] &ndash; Detailed review on [[MP3 Newswire]] focused on the PSP's movie and audio abilities
* [http://arstechnica.com/reviews/hardware/psp.ars/ Sony PSP Handheld Entertainment System] &ndash; In-depth 8-pages review, [[Ars Technica]], [[28 March]] [[2005]]

;Other links
* {{dmoz|Games/Video_Games/Console_Platforms/Sony/PlayStation_Portable/}}
* [http://OpenPSP.ru OpenPSP]

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Revision as of 18:46, 5 May 2008

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