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Patent Indicates Possible PSP Redesign

The rumor that Sony was preparing a revamped PSP began to fly last March, when a PSP in Education event hinted at the possibility of a redesign for Sony's handheld. Then, SCE UK Managing Director went on record saying the new PSP would be "smaller and lighter" but the screen would remain unchanged. Thanks to an updated list of filings presented by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, it appears we have more news:

According to GameSpot, the patent details a way to switch between gaming and phone functionality in a sketch shown here. Quite simply, the screen would rotate 90 degrees and the machine would come equipped with a sensor that could detect the screen's position. The patent further details a third screen position option, which would control TV and video function.

Of course, this doesn't necessarily mean a brand new PSP is being developed at this point. The patent simply gives Sony the option, if they choose to pursue such an endeavor. Even so, it becomes significant that Sony joined with UK telecom provider BT to bring wireless broadband communication to the PSP. …could that be a sign? Well, guess we'll have to wait for an official announcement, but for now, this is certainly news to mull over.