Next PSP to get built-in camera, video streaming?

The next version of Sony's PSP will sport an integrated digital video camera that will allow users to stream live video to the PlayStation 3, according to an anonymous source. The feature, which will utilize the PSP's Wi-Fi support, will be marketed as the new way to chat with friends while on the go.

According to the tipster, the "PSP 2" will also gain the recently rumored NAND flash storage, though the first generation of the new model will only be available with 4GB instead of the 8GB currently speculated. Sony will also trim approximately a quarter of inch from the device, and offer it in three color choices — black, white and silver.

The source claims that the tiny camera will be an off-the-shelf stock unit that is currently being used in several Sony Ericsson mobile phones, and will also allow users to take still photos, in addition to video. Its placement will be directly below the PSP's screen, where the "PSP" logo can currently be found.

The new PSP's video streaming capabilities will be considered a must-have addition for Sony's upcoming PS3 console. While details are obviously scant at this point, the source say the streaming will be made possible through the upcoming HUB PlayStation service, which will supposedly launch alongside the PS3 and compete directly with Microsoft's Xbox Live service.

PSP World has not been able to confirm the existence of a new PSP or any of the alleged new features claimed by the tipster, so the above should be taken with a grain of salt. However, such a revamp would seem to fit in with Sony's vision for the product.