Culver City (CA) - PSP owners will finally make good use out of the system's voice-over IP functionality, with the official addition of a custom version of the online calling service Skype.

With the next scheduled firmware update, users will be able to download a completely functional version of Skype for the PSP.  In addition to making phone calls to existing Skype users, PSP owners will be able to manage their contacts list, see who's online and who's not, make and calls to/from actual telephone numbers, and have complete access to Skype account settings.

According to Sony, this functionality only works properly with the newer slim version of the PSP, further creating obsolescence for the original model.

The firmware update is slated for the end of this month.  A Skype icon will be added to the "Network" category of the PSP's Xross Media Bar.  Users will also be able to create a Skype account directly from the portable system.  The feature will require a nominal download, so a Memory Stick will be needed to access the program.

Interesting Twist

Jan 07, 2008 09:59     

There are phones that one can play games on. Now there is a portable game consil that one can make phone calls on. That is an interesting twist on devices.
TomLeeM/BigWarpGuy report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

old psp

Jan 07, 2008 10:42     

I have the old psp.so this news is useless.. sony...try make something someone cares!
andy report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

Finally...

Jan 07, 2008 11:28     

That's great, been waiting for this. Now just if I could keep my custom firmware too...
Visualizo.Com report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

Range?

Jan 07, 2008 13:45     

I assume you have to be in range of a wireless network to make a phone call.
cclark.us report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

hackers already released fat PSP version of skpe!

Jan 07, 2008 16:51     

hackers already released fat PSP version of skpe! google it.
Roy report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

HALO

Jan 09, 2008 08:33     

hackers have made a halo version on the psp already, google it
GANGSTA report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0

a brazen phrase

Jan 09, 2008 10:48     

"Hackers" are using that term too lightly these days.
Keebler report abuse vote down vote up Votes: +0