Tech blog Engadget scored an early look at the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play--the upcoming phone with PSP capabilities--delivering early images and specs of the system. Read on for our summary.
Image courtesy Engadget.
With the rumored next iteration of the PlayStation Portable platform rumored to be revealed in the next few days, Engadget may have already gotten their hands on the company's next big product. In an exclusive preview, Engadget divulged a few details they were able to glean from an early version of the the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play (along with our thoughts).
- The major additions from the previous iterations of the PSP are the dual touchpads. While Engadget is of the mindset that the pads will only be compatible with Xperia Play apps, it seems likely that the left pad will act as a substitute for the analog stick found on previous PSPs. It could also act as a bridge for the next generation of PSP hardware, as fans have long-clamored for two analogue sticks to better replicate the console gaming experience. The Xperia Play also has a touch-screen. While it was only used for phone menu navigation during Engadget's time with the product, it could be used for rudimentary game menu navigation or possibly gameplay if the platform has exclusive games.
- While Engadget was unable to test any official games made (or altered) specifically to work with the Sony Xperia Play, the team did spot an new app for the phone called "PlayStation Pocket." Engadget surmised that it will probably be the system's utility to organize and launch games--other models of the PSP use the Cross Media Bar. If the Xperia Play's hardware turns out to be drastically different from the other PSPs, it may serve as a substitute for the PlayStation Network, offering games that are guaranteed to work with the new hardware.
- Here's a few of the under-the-hood stats that Engadget was able to decipher. The Xperia Play has a single-core processor that can reach 1.2GHz and has a half-gig of RAM. While they weren't able to utilize WiFi (that, along with the system's "2nd mic" function were disabled), the team got roughly a full day of 3G coverage, taking many pictures with the Xperia Play before it needed a recharge.
Image courtesy Engadget.
We have contacted PlayStation PR representatives regarding the legitimacy of the Xperia Play, and will update this article if we hear back. For the full preview, check out Endadget. In the meantime, what are your preliminary thoughts on the next evolution of the PSP platform?
SOURCE: Exclusive: Sony Ericsson Xperia Play (PlayStation Phone) preview [Engadget]
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Wednesday, January 26, 2011