KEY POINTS:
I love the way consecutive firmware updates for both Sony's PS3 video games console and the PSP handheld versions allow new functionality to be added to the devices all the time. The last firmware update I did allowed the PSP lite console I'm using (its gaudy yellow because it was a special Simpsons-themed issue) to function as a Skype phone.
We all know Skype, the peer-to-peer VoIP calling service that allows you to make free calls between computers and phones equipped with Wi-fi. Well, the PSP also has Wi-fi built in, so it wasn't a huge leap of imagination to see the PSP working as a Skype phone.
I used the PSP for Skype calls on my recent jaunt to Europe and overall, was impressed with the experience. I was especially pleased that I didn't have to invest in the PSP/Skype headphones with remote control to make Skype work. I simply plugged in my Sennheiser headphones and used the little PSP digital camera adapter with built-in microphone I had lying around so that the caller could hear my voice.
Logging into Skype on the PSP can be a lengthy process. It took an age on some of the public Wi-fi networks I tried abroad - though it worked okay over the PCCW free Wi-fi hotspots in Hong Kong airport. The best results, not surprisingly, were achieved on my home Wi-fi network.
Logging into Skype, you get a nice interface that gives you your profile status, your list of contacts (online contacts glow green just like with the PC version of Skype). You simply click the X button over the contact you wish to dial and the familiar Skype ringtone kicks in. I was worried about the quality of the PSP digital camera and microphone to pick up my voice, but people I called said the audio was up to scratch. It's just like using a Skype VoIP handset.
The interface accommodates Skype Out calling if you've got credits - it's an exact replica of your account including your credit status.
So what's the appeal in having Skype on the PSP? Well, the PSP is a neat entertainment device for carrying with you - you can play games, watch movies and listen to movies on it. Turning it into a VoIP phone makes it even more useful especially as free Wi-fi hotspots and deals that allow broadband customers automatic access to hotspot networks (see AT&T in the US and O2 and T-Mobile in the UK) proliferate.
It's not as totally seamless experience. With public Wi-fi hotspots you'll likely have to log into the network through a public webpage and doing so on the PSP's web browser can be fiddly. Once you're on Skype is a breeze, though you can expect in some instances a 30 second to 1 minute delay before you're logged in.
Owners of the first generation of PSPs should also note that you can't use Skype, only the newer slim-line PSPs with higher technical specifications can handle the service.
All up a decent, free add-on for the PSP and one that makes the device even more attractive for those with access to Wi-fi at home and out on the road. One of the best Skype implementations I've seen since the classy Netgear Skype handset that did away with any need for peripheral hardware.
