Sony PSP

The PlayStation Portable is the only handheld video game console to use an optical disc format, Universal Media Disc (UMD), as its primary storage medium. Other distinguishing features of the console include its large viewing screen, robust multi-media capabilities, and connectivity with the PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, other PSPs and the Internet.

The original PSP, the PSP-1000, is also known as the Phat or Fat version.

The next release version of the PSP was that of a slimmer, remodeled version of the PSP-2000. This version is also know as the slim or lite version and was launched on September 12, 2007, in Australia. The PSP Slim is thinner and lighter than the original PSP-1000. The PSP-2000 is reduced from 23 mm to 18.6 mm and weighs in 189 grams, down from 280 grams. USB charging was also added, the PSP-2000 will only charge while it is in USB mode. It cannot be charged via USB when playing a game.

The PSP 2000 model was later replaced by another revision, the PSP-3000, which included a new screen and an inbuilt microphone. The PSP-3000 features an improved LCD screen that has an increased color range, five times the contrast ratio and anti-reflective technology to improve outdoor playability. Additionally with the PSP-3000, games can be output by component or composite using the video out cable.

Following on from the PSP-3000, a complete redesign called the PSP Go was released, which was sold alongside the PSP-3000.

In 2011 a budget model, the PSP-E1000, was announced with the Australian release being in November 2011. Unlike previous PSP models, the E1000 does not feature Wi-fi capabilities and has a matte "charcoal black" finish similar to the slim PlayStation 3.

The PSP line is due to be succeeded by the PlayStation Vita in late 2011 or early 2012 depending upon location.