SCEE has unveiled a new PSP that will become available in Japan, Asia, North America and Europe this October. The PSP-3000 will be available in Piano Black, Pearl White and Mystic Silver.

The PSP-3000 features an advanced LCD screen supporting higher image quality as well as a built-in microphone and will hit shelves across the PAL territories (Europe, Middle East, Australia and New Zealand) on the 15th of October. The new PSP will be available as a bundle including one software title for 199 Euros.

The PSP-3000 will be available across North America on the 14th of October in the previously announced Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters PSP Entertainment Pack as well as a new PSP 4GB Memory Entertainment Pack. The PSP Entertainment Packs will be available across the US for $199.99 this October while a standalone updated PSP in Piano Black will become available later this year as part of the PSP Core Pack for $169.99.

The PSP 40GB Memory Entertainment Pack will be the first bundle to feature the 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo and will be available in November. It will include a Piano Black PSP-3000, 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo and a PSN voucher to download Everyday Shooter.

The Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters PSP Entertainment Pack will include the Mystic Silver PSP-3000 (the first updated PSP to be available), a copy of Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters, a National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets UMD video, a PSN voucher to download echochrome and a 1GB Memory Stick PRO Duo.

The PSP-3000 offers the same size and features of the Slim & Lite, but gamers can look forward to crisper, deeper and more vibrant colours as well anti-reflection technology allowing you to see the screen more clearly when outside.

In addition the new PSP includes a built-in microphone that maximizes communication features of products such as Go! Messenger and Skype. This built-in microphone enables gamers to engage in multiplayer gaming communication and make Skype calls directly from the hardware no more need to attach a headset.

The video-out port on the new PSP has been expanded to output game play in interlace format, meaning gamers can enjoy games on non-progressive TVs by using separately sold cables (the Slim & Lite could only display games on progressive TVS).

Various bundles will become available across the PAL territories that will take advantage of the new PSP features including a Go! Communications bundle as well as various games third party bundles including Buzz! Master Quiz, FIFA 09 and Harry Potter bundles.

Sony pointed out that the PSP has been growing more popular globally, largely due to its software line-up, new colours and network services. Launched in September 2007, the Slim & Lite PSP has helped to accelerate sales with over 13.4 million units sold in the PAL territories and over 41 million units around the world as at June 2008.

“As we head into the holiday shopping season, both of these new Entertainment Packs represent a significant value for gift-givers, combining the updated PSP and its enhanced screen with content that showcases the PSP’s gaming and entertainment functionality,” said Peter Dille, senior vice president, marketing and PLAYSTATION Network, SCEA.

“The 4GB Memory bundle is geared toward the digital entertainment enthusiast who likes to bring their media files on-the-go and download content from the PLAYSTATION Network. The Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters bundle is a great family-friendly option centered on one of the most beloved PlayStation franchises.”