As Engadget said all last week, Sony confirmed Sunday that a firmware update for the PSP handheld gaming system will include free telephone calls via Skype.

“PSP users worldwide will be able to start using Skype features and services through a simple system software update scheduled in late January,” Sony Computer Entertainment said Sunday. “After updating the PSP system software, a Skype icon will be added to the Network category in the home menu. PSP users who do not yet have a Skype username can register by clicking the icon and following the instructions. PSP users who already have a Skype username can immediately sign in by clicking the Skype icon and entering their username and password.”

Full list of features:

  • Free voice calls between Skype users
  • Skype contact list management (view existing contacts, add new ones)
  • Skype presence (see which friends are online and available to talk)
  • SkypeOutcalls to make calls to landlines and mobile phones anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
  • Optional SkypeIn number that lets users receive calls on Skype from landlines and mobiles anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
  • View and modify Skype settings and account details (including username creation, SkypeOut settings, voicemail settings and call forwarding)

Skype allows users to make voice calls among other users free of charge over the Internet. There are more than 246 million members.

About The Author

John Guilfoil is the editor-in-chief of Blast: Boston's Online Magazine and the Blast Magazine Network. He can be reached at [email protected]. Tweet @johnguilfoil.

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