14 DAY TRIAL // Last week, anyone browsing through the features of the PSP on the Sony products page, would find that the system now sports an additional characteristic: the ability to "call friends, talk trash to fellow gamers or catch up with acquaintances via Skype for PSP system." Sony has now confirmed that Skype is indeed heading towards the PSP. The company has plans of introducing the service very soon.
According to the official Sony report, by introducing Skype on PSP, the following features and services will be made available to its users:
- Free voice calls between Skype users
- Skype contact list management (view existing contacts, add new ones)
- Skype presence (see which friends are online and available to talk)
- SkypeOut calls to make calls to landlines and mobile phones anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
- Optional SkypeIn number that lets users receive calls on Skype from landlines and mobiles anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
- View and modify Skype settings and account details (including username creation, SkypeOut settings, voicemail settings and call forwarding)
Users will need a Memory Stick Duo, a wireless Internet connection and a Skype-compatible audio input device to enjoy Skype on the PSP. In order to receive calls, PSP owners will also have to be connected to the Internet and signed in through the Skype screen on PSP.
A simple system software update scheduled for release in late January is all you're going to need to enjoy the upper-mentioned features. After updating the PSP's system software, a Skype icon will be added to the Network category in the home menu, according to the report.
You'll even be able to get Skype onto your PSP and register afterwards, by just clicking on the icon and following a few instructions. Those who already have a Skype username, will be able to immediately sign in by entering their username and password, after clicking on the icon.
Sony has yet to produce an exact date for when the service should become available, so stay tuned for updates.