Sony announces Skype for PSP coming late January, details

There’s no denying now that Skype is coming to the PSP. In fact, Sony sent a press wire confirming the service will be available worldwide before January wraps up. Can’t believe it? Head over to the full article for more details!

Skype on the Sony PlayStation Portable is official, and Sony Computer Entertainment International (SCEI) has released details of the new service on the PSP. What’s supposed to be for talking trash to fellow gamers and catching up with acquaintances will have all the features Skype users are enjoying.

It’s no understatement when we say every Skype feature will be included in its Sony PSP version. As long as you can connect to the Internet and have a Skype-compatible audio input device, here’s what you can do on your handheld:

• Free voice calls between Skype users
• Skype contact list management (view existing contacts, add new ones)
• Skype presence (see which friends are online and available to talk)
• SkypeOut calls to make calls to landlines and mobile phones anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
• Optional SkypeIn number that lets users receive calls on Skype from landlines and mobiles anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
• View and modify Skype settings and account details (including username creation, SkypeOut settings, voicemail settings and call forwarding)

The update that will add Skype to the PSP is expected to be available worldwide in late January. Of course, you’ll need a Memory Stick Duo for it. To access Skype, all you have to do is find its icon that will appear under the Network category and log-in or sign-up. Unfortunately, Skype will only be available to the PSP Slim & Lite model.

Skype has around 248 million registered users, and soon, PSP owners can contact anyone in the network via their handheld gaming device. Sony did say they’ll be announcing the long-awaited feature at CES 2008, so we’re guessing it won’t be long ’til we see it in action. Our eyes are peeled, so stay tuned!

Thanks to SooperGooman and Jaspreet S for the tip!