There has however been several leaks of the device over the past couple of months, some originating out of China and some simply due to loose lips. Now, according to Japanese newspaper Nikkei, Sony is planning to make the PSP2 the "world's first game machine to connect to the 3G cell phone market."

 

If the rumour is true it would mean that Sony is expanding wireless capabilities on its handhelds beyond the current wireless LAN standard, as used in the current PSP Go and Nintendo handhelds. Otherwise, 3G will for the most part work in a similar manner, allowing gamers to download content (such as games, software or new media) to their PSP2 system. 3G can also be used to play multiplayer games online, although the newspaper said voice communication would not be included with the PSP2.

 

The most striking advantage of 3G connectivity will however be the fact that users won’t need to connect to a wireless access point (such as a wireless router) to access online content (or online games). Instead it will be readily accessible at any time just like the internet on your mobile phone (as long as signal strength plays along of course). 

 

The article also stated that the PSP2 would make use of a larger OELD (organic electrolumincescent display) and that Sony is developing a chip that allows high-resolution images to be displayed very quickly.

 

Sony will finally be sharing some official news regarding its new handheld come 27 January, when the company will be holding a press event in Tokyo, thought to include the unveiling of the PSP2.