NGP touts new connectivity, social networking features
PSP successor to pack trophies, LiveArea network interface
A slew of new connectivity and social networking features will debut with the launch of Sony next-generation portable codenamed NGP.
Revealed during a company press event today in Tokyo, NGP (which stands for Next Generation Portable) supports GPS, wi-fi, and 3G networks allowing for the downloading of games, multiplayer, and social networking.
The new LiveArea interface will serve as the hub for using NGP, enabling you to launch games, browse the PlayStation Store, and connect with other NGP owners.
As demonstrated during the event, you can switch between games and LiveArea to chat with others playing the same game or see what friends are doing.
Location-based services will be offered too. The device can detect what other NGP owners in the vicinity are playing and can display data on popular games based on location.
Also of note are the addition of trophies. Long a request of the PlayStation fan base, NGP titles will support trophies and be listed on a single PlayStation Network ID.
NGP will be available this holiday season; final name, release date, and pricing to be announced at a future date.
