Update allows PSP remote play of PS One titles

The recent PS3 and PSP system update comes with an unannounced feature - the ability to remotely play any PS One game on the PSP handheld.

A PS3 2.10 firmware update was released in the US today, adding a voice changer feature to voice/video chat, DivX and VC-1 (WMV) codec support to video playback, and picture-in-picture features to Blu-ray disc playback.

A PSP 3.80 firmware update was also released, adding Internet radio compatibility.

Remote play of PS One titles was not mentioned in either update, but GamesIndustry.biz has confirmed the existence of the new feature.

Although some PS One titles have previously been made available for sale via the PlayStation Store, this update allows all PS One titles to be played on the PSP via the PS3's remote connection.

It also lets PS3 owners play purchased PS One titles remotely from the hard drive, rather than requiring them to be downloaded to a PSP memory stick.

A SCEA spokesperson had not yet responded to a request for comment.

It is not known if there are any compatibility issues with specific titles, but users will need to reassign the controls in many games to account for the PSP's lack of two analog sticks and four shoulder buttons.