PSP Firmware Update 6.38 Released

The PlayStation Portable has just seen its firmware version be updated to 6.38, which is being rolled out as we speak over the PlayStation Network online service.

Sony has been trying to raise awareness of its PlayStation Portable handheld system, even as it is being constantly beaten by the Nintendo DS in North America and Europe, and as its Japanese rivals have just launched the 3DS portable console.

Existing PSP owners, whether they have the standard PSP editions, like the 1000, 2000 or 3000, or the special PSP Go one, will now be met with a firmware update announcement the next time they connect the console to the Internet.

Sony has released a new version of the system's software, taking it to 6.38, which is currently being rolled out over the Internet.

According to the company, the update is set to resolve some of the stability issues that were encountered by owners of the portable device.

"Hi everyone, a new PSP system software update, v6.38, will be released soon," said Eric Lempel, vice president of Network Operations for Sony Computer Entertainment America. "System software stability during use of some features will be improved."

PSP owners should also expect another update for the Media Go application, which will be released later this week and will add support for Sony's new devices like the Xperia Play, Arc or Neo mobile phones, as well as some recent Walkman media players.

Installation, performance and stability improvements will also be made to the Media Go app when the new update will be deployed.

Besides the firmware updates, Sony has also been making price cuts to the PSP-3000 system, both in North America and Europe, except the UK, as well as for the PSP Go one, which only saw a discount, as of yet, in North America.

At the same time, Sony is trying to get its Next Generation Portable device ready for release at the end of the year, when, according to previous statements, will be launched in at least one territory in order to battle devices like the Nintendo 3DS or Apple's iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad trifecta.