Targets Nintendo DS
Sony is to launch a new
model of its PlayStation Portable (PSP) handheld machine in October to challenge
Nintendo's market-beating DS.
The PSP-3000, which has already been shown off
in August, has a built-in microphone and better LCD panel which can be seen
outdoors. The screen also offers a shorter response time which makes moving
pictures look better. Making phone calls on the PSP is easier thanks to the
built-in microphone.
The new machine will sell for $182 which is the same
price as the current PSP model. Sony sold 3.72 million units of the PSP in
April-June worldwide only half the number of DS units flogged by
Nintendo.
The PSP has been making a comeback lately in Japan thanks to
Capcom's popular hunting action game "Monster Hunter Freedom 2G". It has been
even outselling the DS.