Sony delays PSP launch

Electronics giant Sony has delayed the announcement of when it will launch its new PSP pocket games console in the UK to ensure it can meet demand, a spokesman said today.

The corporation wanted the PSP (PlayStation Portable) to hit stores in the UK and Europe by the end of March.

But an “unprecedented” demand for the gadget since its launch in Japan on December 12 has caused Sony to rethink its plans.

It is waiting until after the PSP is launched in North America, next Monday, before deciding when it will go on sale here.

Jonathan Fargher, senior PR manager for Sony Computer Entertainment in the UK, said: “We initially announced the intention to launch the PSP before the end of the financial year (March 31) but that is no longer the case.

“We have one million units available for the US launch and we wanted to make sure we didn’t go from one million to zero.

“There is no point creating shortage on three fronts.”

Sony suffered supply problems when stock of a new slimmer version of its PS2 console dried up because factories could not keep up with demand.

The situation was made worse when a supertanker got stuck in the Suez Canal. This prevented other ships, including one carrying PS2s destined for the UK, from getting through.

The PSP is primarily a games console but also comes equipped with technology to play movies, eventually available on tiny discs, and download music.

It has already been launched in Japan, with 120 games, and is due to go on sale in the US on March 24 priced $249 (£186).