Sony release wi-fi TV for PSP on the same day as iTunes 6 & The iPod
http://products.sel.sony.com/locationfreetv/owners/psp.html
On the same day that Apple debut iTunes 6 and the The iPod Sony released firmware 2.5 for the PSP. This switches on LocationFree which allows the downloading of TV programs and other video to the PSP. Similar in theme to the video in iTunes 6 but the PSP has a larger screen and wi-fi. Location Free can be used at home and on the road.
Dunno how much it will cost but the Japanese site that is already serving up content for download is free for the moment.
http://www.psp-vault.com/Article290.psp <-- more info about Location Free (page not from sony but it does contain the official links)
In my opinion Sony win this one on technical merit with the only minus points being smaller storage space (although I'll bet this new service is streaming) and the b grade wifi instead of g grade. Which is still better than the iPod's zero grade. I'm already enjoying converting my own videos for the PSP and getting excellent results.
I wish Apple would get back to the music. Love the nano.
3G owner with partner's nano.
# 2 Re: Sony release wi-fi TV for PSP on the same day as iTunes 6 & The iPod
The only kink in that plan is that
1. PSP=$249
2. Location Free Base=$349
Total=$600
Considering the iPod's current mass appeal and the fact that no one else knows what Location Free, it probably won't put a dent in iPod's sales.
# 3 Re: Sony release wi-fi TV for PSP on the same day as iTunes 6 & The iPod
You DON'T need a Location Free box for the PSP features. That box is for people that want to plug their TV into their broadband and use that to recieve TV. PSP owners just need the new firmware and an access point (at home or on the go). The only thing I am not yet sure of is subscription rates.
Otherwise a PSP costing from 110 (in japan) right now isn't a bad deal as it handles photos and of course games very well.
For music absolutely the iPod beats the PSP into submission. The two don't even get into the same ring as each other. The PSP is at the back of the theatre watching the iPod wonder why it bothered to bring boxing gloves.
For video the PSP wins. It's only problem is storage space but the screen is so much better. It's bigger and wider and the quality is very good. And the fact that you can pick up new stuff on the go as opposed to sitting at home with a USB cable hands Sony the technical vicotry here. Since it's this market that iTunes 6 and The iPod is getting in on I think they and indeed you should be aware that it's not so easy to be out ahead.
However, as you quite rightly say, Sony will have to (and probably won't) market PSTV to it's eyeballs to have any effect on Apple's publicity machine. Right now Apple release a new iPod and it makes the evening news - it's not news it's press releases!
But the smart thing to do is to pay attention to what is better. The iPod music player remeains strong because it's reasonable reliable, usuable and looks much better than the best any competitor has managed so far. I don't think the looks aspect stretches to the video side of things yet.
