Sony PlayStation Portable (PSP) users will soon be able to talk to one another face to face over the internet, after plans were unveiled to release a camera and microphone for the system.The development will allow PSP owners to make voice and video calls to other users and some BT phones over Wi-Fi networks.
BT has developed the software, which will eventually allow users to connect with PCs, mobiles and other fixed phone lines.
The service will initially be active in UK homes or BT wireless hotspots, of which there are around 2,000 in airports, fast food outlets and other areas across Britain.
BT's chief of mobility and convergence, Steve Andrews, said: "The PSP is an excellent device for both gaming and communications, because of its high quality screen and audio capabilities.
"With over eight million PSPs shipped across Europe, we are very excited by the opportunity to give customers a whole new communications experience, connecting and seeing friends across the world through BT's technology."
President of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, David Reeves, added: "It is very exciting for us to be partnering with BT on such a unique project.
"The opportunity to combine our market leading expertise with BT's knowledge in communications opens up many possibilities and we look forward to bringing many exciting communication functions to PSP fans."
Over 24 million PSPs have been sold across the globe and BT revealed that the software will eventually be distrusted to telecoms firms in 100 other nations.
