Those based in Japan might want to consider picking up a copy of the third iteration of Minna no Chizu called Everyone's Map Returns for the PSP.  This two UMD set which contains regional maps for all of Japan including detailed maps of 1,300 cities.

Want to find out more information about this application and see the program's packshot and screenshots? Head on over to the full article.

Remember Minna no Chizu (Everyone's Map)? The PSP map software? Too bad it was only released in Japan. As we could think of a number of handy ways to use it (like looking for Mickey D's), we are also waiting for the upcoming release of Minna no Chizu 2.

This new title will sport a number of features, such as compatibility with the PSP GPS accessory (Japan only) and downloadable Guides - reportedly able to point you in the direction of Playstation Spots or sushi bars within a 5-mile radius. The PetaMap will allow for two way sharing of info, which includes Guides, points of interest. It will even allow for the sending of messages and creation of blogs.

Minna no Chizu 2 features two ways of automatic location search: the PSP GPS add-on and PlaceEngine. PlaceEngine uses WiFi signals from other networks to decide where you are. Plus, it also offers a few shortcuts with the pedestrian navigation route (gives info on covered walkways and shortcuts like parks and such) and directions to disaster relief sites and shelters.

Minna no Chizu 2 is slated for April 26 and will retail at ¥5,040 (around US$ 43). It also has a version that includes the GPS accessory that will sell at ¥9,975 - US$ 85. There hasn't been word whether Minna no Chizu 2 will have a US release. Even the GPS accessory's release hasn't been announced yet. We'll sniff around some more and let you know.

Rumors have been going around stating that a new PSP firmware would be released today featuring GPS support for the PSP, but as you can see no new firmware has been released. Instead, a program called Minna no Chizu (Everyone's Map) has been released for the price of 3,990 Yen, roughly $34 USD, as was speculated earlier. Although there's still no GPS support, this program requiring the 2.60 firmware features maps of all of Japan. Major metropolitan areas can reach a zoom level of 0 (1 cm on screen equals 25 m), while some of the less populated areas can only zoom into 1 cm per 100 m, which still isn't that bad. In the future, add-on packages will be released to include points of interests like restaurants, but for now you can still view all of the names of streets. Although the GPS we've all desired still isn't here, this is definitely a step in the right direction.