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Apple site redesign yields new iPhone visuals
Some downtime on ye ole Apple Store had folks fired up that something fresh from Cupertino might get pushed out to store shelves Monday, but the ready-to-swipe credit cards sitting in the world's outstretched hands ended up going largely unused when Steve decided to focus more on what's to come than what's on sale today. No bother -- at least the WWDC keynote was accompanied by an Apple.com redesign that dragged along some fresh iPhone scenery for the ride. Unless your name's Walt, this is about as close as you're gonna get to it before the 29th, so soak it all in.%Gallery-3869%
Rumor: PSP redesign details "revealed"
Sony PSP redesign rumors are as old as ... well, probably the PSP itself. With Nintendo's redesigned DS Lite continuing to sell like DS Lites, a redesigned PSP just seemed like, well, an inevitability. Take a look at rumors past and you'll see a frothy and intoxicating mix of analyst speculation, fanboy quarterbacking, and inside sources, all met with Sony's swift (and deadly) denial: "We don't comment on rumors or speculation."So it goes with this latest occurence of PSP redesign rumors. Rival blogging faction, Kotaku, reports that mysterious (and no doubt disguised) inside sources have donned their trusty trenchcoats and fake mustaches to reveal that the redesigned PSP will, as expected, not be a new system, rather a redesign of the current hardware. That means slimmer gear, longer battery time, internal storage (8GB of flash ... where's the 60GB hard drive?), a faster UMD drive, redesigned buttons/D-pad, and a summer release date that will be revealed in a few short weeks at E3. We contacted Sony's Dave Karraker who, not surprisingly, told us, "We don't comment on rumors or speculation." Right you are. We'll add this one with the others then.
PSP Slim details leaked?
We're sure that a PSP remake is coming ... but when? Kotaku, in a "rumor" from "several sources close to Sony," suggests that a thinner PSP will be unveiled at E3 next month. The system will supposedly feature a new LED screen that delivers a crisp image in a new, thinner size. Due to new screen technology, battery life will also increase, up four-fold. Amongst other features is a faster UMD drive, 8GB of internal flash memory, and a revamped D-Pad. All of this is supposed to come in at a surprising cost: only $170, the same cost of the system now.Sound too good to be true? Maybe. We contacted Dave Karraker from SCEA and he commented: "This is pure rumor and speculation, for which we don't comment."We honestly find many of these details to be much too extravagant, especially at such a low price. (How much money would Sony lose on each system sold? 8GB of memory alone would make the $170 price much too costly for the manufacturer.) We'll have to wait until E3 to see if Kotaku's bold claims have any weight to them.
PSP hardware to undergo refreshing change?
When speaking of PSP, many gamers come up with one of two qualms. Firstly, the absence of a PSP store, similar to the PLAYSTATION Store found on PS3 consoles. As we reported earlier, this problem is finally being addressed. The second complaint -- a much more common one -- is the hardware design: many people are clamoring for a revised PSP design.Well, looks like that's going to be happening too. While unlikely to be a true successor to the PSP hardware, Sony seems intent on making a slightly altered system. In a statement that Gamasutra picked up, it appears that Sony is working on a "hardware refresh." Certainly, an interesting choice of words. What could a "hardware refresh" mean? It could be something as simple as a new system color ... or it could be something far more drastic, akin to the change from the original DS Phat to the sexier DS Lite.Let the speculation and conspiracy theories begin.
Apple redesigns Support site
digg_url = 'http://digg.com/apple/Apple_redesigns_Support_site'; It's been over a year since we've seen a redesign of Apple's support site, so the company must have felt it was about time to redecorate. TUAW reader Cameron Drysdale noticed that the site has received a major redesign, bringing it a bit more in line stylistically with the new layout at the Downloads page we mentioned. I don't have any screenshots of the now old 'n busted support site, but it feels like this layout is a bit wider and and easier to navigate. On the left is a main navigation area that acts as a springboard to getting support for a few choice Apple products, with a drop down menu containing an alphabetical list of all the other products, right down to Apple Studio Displays and iWeb. This should help customers get to where they're going a lot faster than the previous design. Also more prominent in the bottom section of the site is a box for entering any Apple product's serial number to gain instant information about the support coverage it might have, as well as links to sections like AppleCare, Repair and Replacement parts and Exchange and Extension programs which all feature links to recent events, such as the MacBook/Pro battery update we just mentioned and the iMac G5 Power Supply exchange program.All in all it's a nice redesign, with a few tasteful gradients to score some points with recent trends and a much improved, more navigable layout. Anyone know who handles Apple's site design?
PSP2 probably is or isn't coming -- maybe
Almost since its inception the PSP has been subject of relentless redesign rumors -- and why not? By most portable gaming device standards it's positively ginormous. Blame it on the UMD, that beautifully massive 4.3-inch screen, or its lack of internal memory, but a thinner, trimmed down PSP is just what the doctor ordered. And while Sony has repeatedly (and expectedly) denied the prospect of an overhaul, SCE UK managing director Ray Maguire recently stated that a "smaller, lighter" PSP was in the wings; of course, that was immediately rebuked by an SCE UK statement that "There are no immediate changes planned for PSP." Look, the PSP isn't going to be like this forever -- either they introduce a new model, or they redesign the current one, but pretending like neither is happening is just silly. We're on to your little game, Sony!
PSP redesign denied, confirmed, re-denied
Sony has said "No" to a PSP redesign on several occasions. Now a conflicting report from SCE UK managing director Ray Maguire says a "smaller, lighter" PSP will be introduced in the future. However, a day later the head of SCE UK PR fed us this line: "There are no immediate changes planned for PSP." Did someone miss the memo?Actually, both of them are probably telling the truth in a sneaky corporate kind of way. Most gaming systems get plastic surgery a few years after their launch. The DS was transformed from a clunky brick to sexy machine we're proud to carry around. It took four years for Sony to release a slim version of the PS2, which means the PSP could be overweight for another two years. A redesign is on the horizon, but that horizon could be a lot further out that we think.
Sony UK talks redesign plans, then denies it (again)
What a tumultuous ride this has been: SCEA says no redesign, and then SCEE managing director Ray Maguire slipped that Sony's current PSP offering was just the "first iteration" of the platform. Speaking at the PSP in Education event, he noted that a smaller, lighter version of the console was coming. Like John Koller, he made specific note that the screen size will never get smaller: it's one of the PSP's best features.Immediately after the event, a Sony spokesperson told Gamesindustry.biz that there are no immediate changes planned for the system: the only developments would come in the form of firmware updates. So, what's the truth, Sony? We've been hearing way too many conflicting reports about this touchy subject.[Via Eurogamer]
Uh, not another bad PSP2 mock-up
When making a mock-up of a fake product, you should at least try to make it look better than its predecessor. This dual-screened PSP looks worse than either the DS Lite or PSP. It reeks of further unprofessionalism when you look closely at the logo: PS2P. Good job! (/end sarcasm)Sony has denied the existence of a redesigned PSP, most recently at GDC. However, that won't stop some people from trying to hoax others into thinking its true.[Via digg]
No PSP redesign planned, but more colors proposed
During a GDC appearance, Sony PSP senior product manager John Koller continued to thwart off rumors that a redesign is the works. It seems that Sony is particularly interested in denying plans to reduce the handheld's overall size, especially its screen. The current strategy is to stay the course; to generate interest in the existing model. Which means? You guessed it: tapping into some of that unused real estate in the ol' rainbow. Handheld owners are known to purchase multiple units, explained Koller -- especially when there are new colors on the market. Why expand your consumer base when you can continue to re-sell freshened up old goods to the same customers? (Wonder where Sony got that idea...?)
GDC 07: PSP won't get redesign; new colors coming soon?
People have been longing for a PSP redesign. It's not happening. John Koller explained that there are currently no redesign plans, regardless of all the rumors that have been on the Internet for ages. One of the main reasons PSP won't get a redesign comes from the issue of screen size: Sony will never make the screen smaller. In fact, the generous screen size of Sony's portable is considered one of the system's greatest advantages.Rather, Sony is looking to continue to add more value to their existing model. Eventually, Sony of America does plan on releasing new colors, but they're waiting for the right opportunity. It's no secret that handheld owners purchase multiple systems, Koller explained. Especially if they're of new colors. Undeniably, launching a new color will spur sales of the system, even if it doesn't necessarily expand the audience.
Not even a rumor: really bad PSP2 fake
Come one, come all ... let's look at the freakshow that is this PSP2 fake. If this were real, then we'd have to assume that Sony's fired all of their graphics designers because this is one of the worst Photoshop jobs I've seen. Heck, our own fan-created 'shop jobs were infinitely better than this. This horrifyingly uncomfortable-looking device is nicknamed the "Cobalt" and comes with these supposed specs:• All Metal & Ruggedized Rubber Build • 200% Brighter Screen • Dual Analog Controllers • Visual Battery Display • 8GB Flash Drive • Wifi (a,b,g) • Bluetooth V.2 (A2DP, AVRCP) • Firmware 4.07Whoever made this design has either: a) never used a PSP (firmware 4.07???) or b) plays his PSP upside-down. I'd make fun of it more ... but I'll leave that up to you guys.[Thanks, dondy! Via 1percent]
PSP survey suggests redesign
Well, would you? Sony recently sent a survey to select members of its GAP community polling them on various features for the PSP. This is unsurprising: they've done this quite a number of times before. However, this is the first time the language has suggested a redesigned PSP: would you buy another PSP, just like the hordes of DS owners that threw out their Phats in exchange for the lovelier Lite? Personally, I think the PSP's design is good just the way it is, and being an owner of a 4GB Memory Stick makes me not care too much about a hard drive. However, video out is very important to me. Why? Well, then I can finally give you guys some direct-feed PSP footage. What about you, ye faithful PSP fanboy? [Via IGN Boards] [Update 1: Our readers have voted! A whopping majority of you, 62%, would purchase a redesigned PSP. As long as it doesn't render the current PSP useless, I think it's clear that a PSP "Lite" would go over very well with the masses.]
Rumor: possible DS redesign in the works
Just what we needed -- wild speculation about the DS. This time it comes in the form of a possible redesign being reported on various Japanese blogs. Or at least, Jeux-France is reporting that the rumor is snaking its way through the 'net. So the French translated the Japanese, and we've translated them (and surely no information has been lost in this process, because we're all professionals here), and here's the word: bigger screens. The completely true and accurate translated report says both screens will be slightly larger than Lite version -- less than an inch of difference on both -- and that the redesign will debut in Japan next year.There's no doubt it would sell, but do we need bigger screens?[Via Joystiq]
Most wanted feature in next PSP? Not a touch screen.
Pocket Gamer recently polled its readers, asking what feature it would most want in the next-generation PSP. The most requested feature? Dual analog sticks. The older demographic of the PSP has made it a hotbed for more mature games, like first person shooters. However, the single analog nub simply doesn't do the genre justice. The addition of a second analog stick would help ease player's ability to navigate through the PSP's already-detailed 3D worlds. Although touch-screen support didn't win, it came in mightily close, in second place. Of course, if Sony did put a touch screen in the next system, people would accuse them of copying a crucial control feature from another company. Not that they've ever done that before...
Beleaguered Sony looks toward "PSP business expansion"
The internet is filled with comments about how the PSP has yet to receive a real "killer app," a AAA title that causes the masses to go out and buy it. While the PSP has more high-rated games than the DS, it doesn't have a title like Mario Kart Nintendogs, or Brain Age that gets mass market attention. And Sony acknowledges that: "Clearly on the software side, any real killer will galvanize the sales. There have been a number of titles that have been terrific, but not the one title that defines the product," SCEA CFO Robert Wiesenthal told financial advisors on Thursday in a conference call. "We are preparing the wiser use of the PSP for the future... We are always looking at the PSP business expansion," Takao Yuhara, Sony's head of investor relations, said during the same conference call.With sales for the PSP slowing down so early on in the system's life, it's becoming more evident that Sony will launch a redesigned PSP. "Of course there's going to be a re-design before next summer, more than likely before GDC (Game Developers Conference). I'd put money on it. Only no one, especially not people at Sony, are going to confirm this, because of the potential damage it could inflict on PSP sales in the run up to Christmas," an anonymous PSP publisher told SPOnG.[Via ITworld]
What Dave Perry wants from a PSP redesign
Dave Perry, the respected creator of games like Earthworm Jim, recently went on record to SPOnG about what he'd like in a potential PSP redesign. He starts by describing the system as "a great little machine, but the price is a major barrier. The American public like $149 to $99 for handhelds." Lowering the price would be substantial in getting more PSPs out there. Mr. Perry has a lot of ideas, some great, and some not-so-much: He proclaims Sony should "make the PSP with a clamshell design, to protect that lovely screen, and they should have made the screen at least DVD resolution." A screen that's 480p would certainly be far pricier to manufacture than Sony's current screen, no? "I would also kill off the UMD disc, remove it entirely and shrink the device size." But that would get rid of compatibility with old PSP games. Maybe for PSP2? Mr. Perry gets a boner for digital distribution, and for good reason: "Embracing digital distribution... would bring movies and games back to the PSP in a sensible way. Then I can buy movies or games for less (ZERO cost of goods), keeping the library safely stored on my PC, picking the ones I want to watch next, and all I have to do is sync. If they wanted to be forward thinking, they could offer modern features like game demos, trial music from new artists, item sales, vast customization of items, characters and in-game objects from databases too vast to store on the PSP." As seen by the popularity of downloadable demos, it's clear that PSP owners want to download games to boot from Memory Stick. The eventual popularity of PSone game downloads may lead Sony to start thinking about offering full PSP titles digitally, saving gamers from UMD costs, and UMD loading times. Homebrew can actually help Sony, according to Mr. Perry: "Did user-created content hurt YouTube? Why not open the PSP? Welcome indie games, welcome development, get the users promoting the device... I bet Sony tries to tell you it doesn't matter. Well, if you type "Sony PSP hack" into Google, there are now 8.6 MILLION pages dedicated to the subject." I completely agree that Sony should be supporting homebrew developers on the platform. In fact, embracing the development community might've prevented the popularity of illegal emulators and ISO programs. Sony could've kept a watchful eye, instead of dividing the community between those that actually play new games, and those that pirate games. One of the greatest attributes of the PSP is that it can connect to a PC, and you can move files between them both. Digital distribution of more demos and games will be key for all PSP owners, and I hope Sony gets working on it.[Via kikizo]
Two redesigned PSPs coming next Spring, say analysts
It's that time of the year again. Yep. Another analyst is talking about a PSP redesign, but this one's a bit more ambitious than the other ones: Paul-Jon McNealy of American Technical Research has predicted the appearance of two new models, one below $199 and one above. "Sony will likely introduce a refresh of the PSP hardware line, including a hard-disk drive PSP and a second PSP with no hard drive but with a significant amount of flash memory on board." Sounds a lot like the other rumor about a redesign.Considering how frequently these redesign reports pop up, I'm going to place my bet that a redesign will come out... eventually (no matter how often Sony denies it). Will it be next Spring, as predicted?[Via International Business Times]
Apple Store redesign in the works
Apple is planning a redesign for their retail stores, modeled after the Fifth Avenue store in New York, to allow for displaying twice as many Macs and iPods, as well as 15% more 3rd party Mac software and iPod accessories. VP of retail, Ron Johnson, released a few of these details to Bloomberg, including stainless steel walls, Italian stone floors and a new dedicated iPod Bar.The first two stores to receive the upgraded design will be in Columbia, Maryland, and the Providence, Rhode Island store we reported back in January. There's no word on whether existing stores will receive the facelift, though we would wager remodels would happen (if at all) on a very discretionary basis.Thanks Marcus
Updated: New PSP design and features due for 2007?
According to PlayStation Magazine -- and we suppose they would know -- Sony has a PSP redesign in the works. It's not a PSP 2, the rumored device resides squarely in the realm of redesign, but the supposed 8GB flash drive from Samsung, built-in EyeToy and a thinner, lighter form factor would all be welcome improvements to the current PSP. Actually, all the specs match up nicely with the PSP 2 rumors we were hearing earlier this year, but supposedly Sony wants to go with the Apple model of iPod upgrades, and stick with the single PSP name. In recent interviews, Sony's SCEA president Kaz Hirai didn't directly discount the idea of a PSP redesign, but he didn't really give it a lot of weight either. We're willing to give this rumor a fair shake, but we'll have to wait for more info and a real pic to see if this thing can have DS lite-ish success at its purported March 2007 launch -- Sony sure could use a hit. UPDATE: Our original post was based on a fan-made PSP mockup from Joystiq's writeup that threw us off the trail, but now we've got a thumbnail of the magazine scan thanks to PSP Fanboy.[Via Joystiq]
