The new PlayStation Portable model (PSP-3000) is released next week with rumors suggesting that PlayStation Network access will be included. In order to keep older PSP models up-to-date, a new firmware version is expected next week. Several sources are reporting that a new firmware update is imminent, but whether it is firmware 5.00 or 4.20 remains to be seen. Around the same time, a new firmware version for the PlayStation 3 is also expected to be released.

Until Sony confirm this story, it should be taken as a rumor. We will bring you more details on this story as we get it.

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The PSP-3000 box was spotted on Amazon showing off what looks like PlayStation Network access. Although you can currently access the PlayStation Store using Remote Play through your PS3, this is the first time we’ve seen shots of accessing the PlayStation Store directly from the PSP. Even the PlayStation Network Logo is included on the box, which further suggests PSN connectivity.

Rumors suggest that a future PSP Firmware update, version 5.00, is said to include PSN Connectivity. We speculate that an official announcement will be made at the Tokyo Game Show. It has been confirmed that the next PSP Firmware Version is 4.20.