New PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) Expands Its Entertainment Experience by Introducing Skype™

PRNewswire
TOKYO
01/06/2008

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today announced that it would introduce Skype™ features to the new slim and light PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system (PSP-2000 series). More than 246 million members are registered for the use of this communications software, which enables users to communicate with other Skype users around the world over the Internet. Calls between Skype users are free of charge.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020701/SFM066LOGO )

By introducing Skype on PSP, the following features and services will be made available to PSP users (*1) (*2):

  -- 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)


PSP users worldwide will be able to start using Skype features and services through a simple system software update scheduled in late January. After updating the PSP system software, a Skype icon will be added to the Network category in the home menu. PSP users who do not yet have a Skype username can register by clicking the icon and following the instructions. PSP users who already have a Skype username can immediately sign in by clicking the Skype icon and entering their username and password.

SCEI will deploy various measures to meet users' demand and vigorously promote the expansion of the PSP platform as a handheld entertainment system to enjoy a variety of interactive digital entertainment.

  * For more information on Skype, please visit www.skype.com

  (*1) To enjoy Skype features on PSP, users will need Memory Stick Duo™,
       a wireless Internet connection and a Skype-compatible audio input
       device.
  (*2) In order to receive calls, users must be connected to the Internet
       and signed in through the Skype screen on PSP.

  About Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Recognized as the global leader and company responsible for the progression of consumer-based computer entertainment, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) manufacturers, distributes and markets the PlayStation® game console, the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) handheld entertainment system and the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3®) system. PlayStation has revolutionized home entertainment by introducing advanced 3D graphic processing, and PlayStation 2 further enhances the PlayStation legacy as the core of home networked entertainment. PSP is a new handheld entertainment system that allows users to enjoy 3D games, with high-quality full-motion video, and high-fidelity stereo audio. PS3 is an advanced computer system, incorporating the state-of- the-art Cell processor with super computer like power. SCEI, along with its subsidiary divisions Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc., Sony Computer Entertainment Europe Ltd., and Sony Computer Entertainment Korea Inc. develops, publishes, markets and distributes software, and manages the third party licensing programs for these platforms in the respective markets worldwide. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. is an independent business unit of the Sony Group.

PlayStation and PSP are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Memory Stick Duo is a trademark of Sony Corporation. Skype, SkypeOut and SkypeIn are trademarks of Skype Technologies S.A. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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SOURCE: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

CONTACT: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., Corporate Communications,
+03-6438-8686

Web site: http://www.playstation.com/
http://www.skype.com/