Sources tell us that Sony is in desperate need of developers for the PlayStation Portable, as many developers have abandoned the platform due to poor sales; on top of this the fact that after Sony gets their cut there is just very little money in developing for the platform.

Sony might have an answer for this problem and they are hoping to attract new developers to the platform. According to our sources, Sony is exploring an option to give qualified developers free PSP development kits to help stimulate development on the platform.

The move by Sony to begin giving away PSP development kits to qualified developers for free could really help stimulate the amount of available titles for the PSP. In addition, it could really help get the PSP development kits into the hands of qualified small development studios or teams that could not otherwise afford the costs associated in buying a development kit and developing for the platform.

Some see this as a possible first strike at attempting to head off a possible attack by Microsoft, who is said to also be working on the development of a portable gaming platform. In addition, Microsoft is already said to be seeking developers for the Zune HD, as well as for applications expected to be sold in the Zune download store. Of course, many developers have also been attracted to the iPhone/iPod Touch and have been starting to develop for that platform, which has caused resources to be stretched for development for additional platforms.

While according to the whispers that we hear nothing is set in stone yet, Sony does seem to be starting to head in this direction as they do believe that it could be the key to turning the tide and gaining more title support for the PSP. In fact, several developers have already announced additional titles for the PSP in a trend that Sony would like to see continue. Sony does believe that the stimulation of the growth of titles for the PSP is necessary for the survival for the platform. While we don’t know which developers might qualify for a free kit, it does seem that this move would really be well received by the development community, according to some that we spoke to about the possibility.