SCEE’s PSP Skype alternative: Go!Messenger for Europe

PlayStation Portable users in Europe now have an alternative to the Skype instant messaging application introduced by Sony a couple of months ago. In a recent statement released by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) and BT, it was announced that they will be launching a new wireless communication package for the PSP called Go!Messenger. For more information, check out the full article.

It looks like Sony isn’t satisfied with just adding Skype to the list of communication features it wants its PlayStation Portable handheld to have. A recent statement released by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) and BT announced that they will be launching a new wireless communication package for the PSP called Go!Messenger.

This free messaging system includes a Video, Voice and Instant Message system, which will allow gamers to share their experiences with others around the world through their handheld gaming devices. Coupled with the Go!Cam video camera, users also have the option of making video calls.

In addition, users won’t really have to worry about connectivity since BT will be putting up over 2,500 BT Openzone hotspots in and around city centers to easy access.

Stephane Hareau, PSP European Marketing Manager, described the new Go!Messenger communication system as such:

With Go!Messenger, the PSP is pushing new boundaries, adding unique communication features to all the existing multimedia experiences. Enabling more than 8.5 Million PSP users across the SCEE region to communicate with each other, through Video or Voice chat, truly confirms the always evolving nature and potential of PSP.

While it seems like the service will be exclusive to the European region, it’s quite evident that the handheld communications trend is slowly picking up. We’ll just have to wait and see if Sony decides to capitalize on the PSP’s other non-gaming aspects in other ways some time in the near future.