Sony to announce PSP Skype at CES

Skype, a free internet communications program, is coming to the PSP according to CES news on Sony's website.

No specifics were given, but Sony indicated that PSP gamers would be able to use the VoIP service to "call friends, talk trash to fellow gamers or catch up with acquaintances."

It is uncertain how Skype will fit in with previously announced plans for the PSP's Go! Messenger service developed in conjunction with BT. Go! Messenger will offer video calls, instant messaging, voice chat and voice messaging in Europe; Skype will likely serve only North America.

Last year, Skype announced a collaboration with Logitech to deliver video calls over the Internet. It is possible that a similar service could take advantage of the PSP's USB camera which has been released in Japan and Europe but not yet in the US.

Requests for comment from both SCEA and Skype were not immediately answered.

Sony is expected to reveal more details at the 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show which takes place next week, January 7-10, in Las Vegas, Nevada.