PSP Firmware (v5.50) Update: memstick manager, Info Board, browser security, unregistered PSN surfing

Well, get a load of this! The latest firmware for the PSP will be going live tomorrow! Looks like Dark AleX might be pushed into creating a custom firmware for this because the PSP FW v5.50 system update has got some huge features packed into it: creating and viewing folders on the XMB, the addition of the XMB Information Board (kinda like the upper-right scrolling ticker box on the PS3), and a bunch of Internet browser additions. Changelog in the full article.

Well, get a load of this! The latest firmware for the PSP will be going live tomorrow! Looks like Dark AleX might be pushed into creating a custom firmware for this because the PSP FW v5.50 system update has got some huge features packed into it: creating and viewing folders on the XMB, the addition of the Information Board (kinda like the upper-right scrolling ticker box on the PS3), and a bunch of Internet browser additions.

Here’s what we can expect:

• The firmware update will introduce an Information Board on the PSP systemÂ’s XMB (XrossMediaBar) interface. Those of you who have a PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3) may be familiar with this feature, which displays news and updates from the world of PlayStation in a scrolling ticker in the upper right-hand corner of your TV screen. Now youÂ’ll be able to read up-to-date information about upcoming games, new content available on PlayStation Store, and other news right on your PSP whenever youÂ’re at a wireless Internet hotspot.
• The v5.50 upgrade means you no longer need a PlayStation®Network account to do a quick bit of window shopping – you can check out all the latest games, trailers and demos available for download from your PSP. (From SCEE press release)
• Memory Stick improvements – YouÂ’ll be able to create and access sub-folders on your Memory Stick PRO Duo for music, videos and photos. Separately, the available space required to download a file from PlayStation Store to your Memory Stick has been reduced significantly.
• Internet search for games directly from the XMB – YouÂ’ll be able to easily search the Internet for information about your PSP games. Select the icon for the game, hit the Triangle button, and then select [Internet Search] from the options menu to get search results based on the game title. This feature was added to PS3 with the recent 2.70 update.
• Trend Micro trial – PSPÂ’s Internet browser is a great tool for checking out your favorite Web sites on the go, and weÂ’re teaming up with the Internet security experts at Trend Micro to make the Web browsing experience safer and more secure. With the 5.50 update, youÂ’ll have the option to access a free trial of two Trend Micro services:
• Trend Micro Web Security uses Web reputation technology to block PSP owners from accidentally visiting a Web site that may contain malicious content designed to steal personal information and confidential data.
• Trend Micro KidsÂ’ Safety uses URL filtering technology to prevent children from accessing Web sites that feature inappropriate content.

The PlayStation blog didn’t mention what exact time the FW update will be available. We’ll just give you guys word once this baby hits the servers.

• PSP firmware 5.02 released… in Japan; carries minor changes *Update*

Via PlayStation Blog