PSP will launch in Europe with version 2.0 firmware

The new v2.00 firmware for the PlayStation Portable will be shipped as standard on European PSP consoles when they arrive on September 1st, a Sony Computer Entertainment representative has confirmed.

The new software adds web browsing, wireless photo sharing and a host of updated features to the console, as well as patching the security hole that allowed homebrew and pirate software to be used on the system.

At present, sample European PSPs are being shipped to reviewers and testers using the 1.52 revision firmware - which patches the security holes, albeit not as thoroughly as the new revision does, but doesn't add any new functionality.

Owners of existing Japanese and US models can update to the new version by downloading a file to their PSP, but European owners won't have to do this, Sony has confirmed; the device will support all of the new functionality straight out of the box.

The PSP is set to launch across Europe on September 1st. Sony has yet to announce what volume of devices it plans to ship to retail for the long-delayed launch.