Sony announces $199 PSP, USB camera

Sony Computer Entertainment America has announced a new PSP hardware package that will sell for $199.99. The base unit, which will be available on March 22, will only come with an AC adaptor and battery, dropping extra accessories found in the PSP Value Pack.

The company also announced that it will release a USB-based camera for the PSP. Few details were given about the camera, but it appears that the rumored PSP2 with an integrated camera is being pushed back. Ken Kutaragi, Sony's head of video games, said at a press conference that the new add-on camera will debut in September. He also said that the PSP will use the camera to do video and voice-over-IP chat, as anticipated in our exclusive report last month. The camera is reportedly sliver and attaches to the USB port.

Also announced was a new GPS receiver that is expected in Autumn alongside a new Hot Shots Golf that will utilize the device.

Update: Sony also revealed details on upcoming software enhancements to the PSP, as well as an official PSone emulator.

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From Sony's announcement:

Following a record-setting launch last year, the PSP system has quickly become a cultural icon and a market-altering force with more than 15 million units shipped worldwide. As of this month in North America, there are more than 107 games available for the PSP system and more than 347 feature films, TV programs and videos from major studios combining with downloadable content from the Internet to create an unmatched library of entertainment content. The PSP system has also served as an important driver in retail sales, bringing in more than $1.6 billion as of calendar year 2005, more than both Xbox 360 and Nintendo DS combined.

"The PSP is the first portable device to deliver upon the promise of console quality game play, and together with the ever evolving multimedia capabilities, provides consumers with functionality never seen before in a portable device," said Jack Tretton, executive vice president and co-COO, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "This new price point demonstrates our ongoing commitment to provide the best entertainment experiences, at affordable prices."

Since its launch on March 24, 2005, the PSP system has evolved continuously with a system software update adding new and attractive features such as Internet browsing, Location Free TV support, and playback of high- quality video (H.264 / AVC MP Level3) stored on Memory Stick Duo(TM). In honor of the first anniversary, Sony Computer Entertainment America will introduce a new USB camera in the spring. By continuing to add new accessories and functionality, the company aims to expand the market and widen the consumer base.