PSP2 in Fall 2011, Bigger Screen and Dual Analog Sticks
More sources confirm the PSP2 has a touch panel on the back and also reveal the follow-up to the Sony PlayStation Portable will have a larger screen and be released in fall 2011.
Kotaku cites several anonymous sources who say they got a look at the PSP2 prototype at the recent Tokyo Game Show. While the inner hardware – such as memory and processor – hasn't been finalized, the sources say the final version will be larger than the current PSP. The size difference is due to a larger screen, about one inch larger, which will also have a higher resolution. Sony reportedly called the screen HD in the backroom meetings at the Tokyo Game Show, but it's not clear what the resolution is or if it truly qualifies as high definition (720p resolution or higher).
The navigation interface will be significantly different too, as sources have echoed rumors about a rear touch panel . It would operate and, supposedly, look just like a laptop trackpad that the player could use with their fingers on the back of the device while holding it. This would allow for touchscreen navigation and play styles without requiring the user to take fingers off other buttons. It also prevents one of the major drawbacks of touchscreen interfaces: the finger obscures part of the screen while it's tapping and sliding.
The PSP2 will also have dual analog sticks, so users will be able to play like they do with current generation console controllers.
Several developers have said they are already using the PSP2 in order to prepare games for its release. Despite that, the sources have said the PSP2 won't be ready for release until the fall of 2011. Sony is reportedly working on problems with battery life and overheating.
