The Sony GPS PSP-290 is an add-on accessory for Play Station Portables. At only some 40 odd mm squared and 16g or so its not a hefty or weighty accessory. It has a 20 channel GPS receiver which provides position accuracy to 5m.

Sony have PSP map software which allows users to find points of interest (POI) on city maps. Searches can be make for addresses and locations can be bookmarked as favorites and comments added. Comments and POI bookmarks can be exchanged with other Sony PSP users. Its another example of a GPS manufacturer trying to encourage a viral type use of their product – Tom Tom have their “Buddies” application.

With its atypical user base the PSP promises some fairly interesting software applications including gaming. One software package available includes maps of Japanese golf courses and allows golfers to check distances to the green and obstacles. There is also a car navigation application which has roadmaps for Japan. The latest maps can be downloaded using the PSP’s networking capabilities.

As you may have guessed, the Sony PSP-290 GPS Receiver accessory is only available in Asia. Release dates for other markets have not been announced.

UPDATE

Sony have released Go!Explore navigation software by Nav N Go for the Sony PSP-290.

Sony PSP GPS Receiver

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Further Reading

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Specification Sony GPS Receiver PSP-290