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The PSP-3000 plays the same games and offers the same media support as the older PSP models, but Sony has upgraded the system with an improved LCD screen and a new built-in microphone. The LCD is the same size and resolution as older PSP displays, but it has a "wider color gamut and anti-reflection technology," according to the latest Sony press release.

The wider color gamut means that the new PSP screen is capable of displaying a wider range of colors. The new LCD also features five times the contrast ratio and quicker pixel-response times than the old PSP display. The response time has doubled in speed and will help eliminate ghosting or blurring during gameplay and video playback.

The increased color gamut and improved contrast ratio was noticeable when we placed the PSP-3000 system right next to a PSP-2000 (PSP Slim); colors looked richer and more vibrant on the PSP-3000


The new system has the same video-out port and uses the exact same video cables as the PSP-2000, but Sony has upgraded the PSP-3000's video output to support gameplay output on interlaced displays using composite video cables. The move will surely excite gamers dismayed over the fact that the PSP Slim can output gameplay video only to progressive scan displays. Now they can buy a new PSP instead of an HDTV.

The PSP-3000's other major upgrade is its new built-in microphone. Sony put the integrated microphone into the PSP design roadmap after seeing the success of the headset-enabled SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo. Sony placed the microphone pickup beneath the screen to the right of the volume buttons, well out of thumb reach, to prevent any inadvertent muting.

Sony hasn't moved around any buttons or switches on the PSP-3000, but the system does have a few external design changes. The black PSP-3000 will have the same glossy finish as the older models, but the silver and white PSP-3000 systems now have a textured surface that provides better protection against fingerprints. The Sony logo that was located on the upper right of the system face has moved to the upper left, and the PlayStation logo that used to be in the upper left is now on the home button beneath the LCD. In addition to rotating the logos, Sony designers have replaced the brushed metal ring on the back of the unit with a thinner chrome ring. The PSP's edges have also softened along the sides while hardening in the corners.

The silver PSP will be available first in america, on October 14, 2008

extra info
UK release date - october 31st 2008 HMV - £149.99
built in mic lets you use 3rd party software such as SKYPE when connected to a wifi connection.