If you enjoyed NervOS v1.7 then here's some good news for you. PirataNervo has released NervOS v2.0, and it has a lot of improvements over the previous release. And by "a lot" we mean A LOT. To quote the dev, it's "the most improved version" ever. To find out more about this homebrew shell, head on over to the full article by clicking on the "read more" link below.

Download: NervOS 2.0
Visit: QJ.NET PSP Development Forums

If you feel like cleaning your PSP's pipes (figuratively speaking), then developer Smokescreen has just the application for you. Config Cleaner v2.00 is a nifty homebrew app which allows you to backup your handheld's registry and even clean up your config.se found in your flash1 Flash Memory slot. Take care in using this app though, since you might accidentally delete some essential files on your PSP.

Download: Config Cleaner 2.00

We just learned today that coder Mediumgauge has rolled out a new build for PSP Filer, bringing the program up to version 4.2. PSP Filer makes it easier for PSP owners to manage their files on the memory stick, UMD drive, as well as on the flash memory.

For those who have been using the older versions of PSP Filer, this might be a good time to update your program as several improvements and bug fixes have been implemented. Check the "read more" link below for more details and the download link.

PSP Homebrew developer Mediumgauge has released PSP Filer version 4.0, along with a test release for kernel 3.xx, which can read and rip from the UMD device but has some limitations.

Like the previous update, the developer has added some new features to the file organizer app. Here are the developer's notes for version PSP Filer v4.00:

General:

• Added a feature to modify CPU speed. (Though UMD ripping feature always runs in 333MHz.)
• Fixed a bug some kind of mp3 files that had LAME tags could not be played.

Filer:

• Added a feature to access ISO archive file. (Those are read-only, and cannot be marked and sorted).

And Here are the developer's notes for PSP Filer v4.00 for kernel 3.xx:

This version cannot do the following features:

• USB device.
• Flash memory maintenance.
• Writing files into flash0/flash1.
• Showing flash device information.

Users are encouraged to pore over the readme file before using the app. The readme file contains the controls for the app as well as tips on how to use it. The readme is once more available in several languages.

Download: PSP Filer v4.0
Download: PSP Filer v4.0 for kernel 3.xx (test version)
Visit: QJ.NET PSP Development Forums

If your Sony PlayStation Portable's a fashion statement, then it'll probably also be the prime target for imitation. That's the impression we're given when we happened upon the PMP K35 from Chinese technological company, Shenzhen Yijingling Technology Co., Ltd.

The PMP K35 may imitate the PSP in appearance and form, but it certainly plays a different tune in function. And we say tune, because aside from playing games contained in Flash storage, the PMP K35 can play and record audio and features a varied set of abilities.

The PMP K35 from Shenzhen Yijingling doesn't use universal media disc (UMD) technology, so it has to rely on Flash sticks containing pre-formatted games to become a portable game handheld. Of course, this does give rise to a more open platform for homebrew, but in essence, the PMP K35 already has a rich feature set of applications that give it the power to:

• Play music files in MP3/WMA/WAV formats
• Perform as a portable FM radio (only available in units with optional FM tuner)
• Record audio via built-in microphone, line-in function in WAV format
• Manage, read, and browse E-books
• Output its video to other video devices using A/V connection in multiple system formats (TV-NTSC/TV-PAL/LCD)
• Manage and browse through multiple Digicam-formatted images
• Display current time on-screen
• Support multiple languages
• Play MPEG4 ASF formatted movies
• Provide ten thousand (?) calendars

But the PMP K35 can only support up to 1 GB Flash memory and its battery is built-in (probably non-detachable), so it does have its share of disadvantages. Details on pricing haven't been divulged, and we're not even sure if the image is the product is still in its concept form. First a portable PS3, then a Vii, and now a PMP. Whatever will they think of next?

Still having problems with that little brother or sister messing around with your PlayStation Portable? Well, you're in luck because homebrew developer Auraomega just dropped by QJ.NET PSP Development Forum and released a new build for the nifty application PSPLock.

To those who've missed our previous coverage on this program, take note that it does what exactly its name says - it locks the PSP unit so that you and you alone can use it.

After installing the program, you have to remove the memory stick and then you're done. Anyway, here is the changelog for PSPLock v2.1:

• Ok, I've sorted out the problem that stopped you accessing the internet browser. For the keen eyed, you may notice that it loads CXMB plugin into RAM, but that's all it does, it still doesn't work correctly, but I AM working on this as much as I can.
• Due to popular demand I've added text output, and a manual input, both of which can be turned on and off. A config file can be used, it should contain 3 digits, 0 or 1, each telling the PSP what to do.
• I also removed a nasty bug that seemed to affect only 2 people, the bug meant that even if both lock.lock files were correct the PSP would still act a brick.
• I've changed the speed the delays cause when doing manual input, and also changed the time taken to load the VSH when the password is correct. Also, if you have the text output disabled, it now loads without any delays.
• Size has been almost halved too for those low on flash memory

Auraomega bundled a very important Readme file with PSPLock v2.1. Please refer to it first before installing the program on your PSP units as it contains a lot of important information and instructions.

Download: PSPLock v2.1
Visit: QJ PSP Development Forum

The PlayStation Portable community was literally rocked when gaming site Kotaku unloaded tons of details for the much-rumored redesigned handheld console. However, the said report met skepticisms from the gaming community particularly the info on the 8GB worth of internal flash memory and alleged shift to LED screen.

Website Rumor Reporter, furthermore, categorically stated today that the said story is indeed misleading and (we quote) is "mainly factually inaccurate." Quite interestingly, the said site maintained that it has more credible sources and is now divulging what they call as the "real" details of the PSP Slim. Here's the list:

• New slimmer PSP is indeed in the works. Hardware is essentially the same, and will NOT have any big speed increases.
• There's no longer a UMD Tray, but a slot loader instead. Design is supposed to have an even "cleaner" look, much like the DS Lite.
• The screen is the exact same size, and is sidekick-esque. This means that there's some sort of a flip-factor, making the overall system even smaller.
• The screen is still LCD, not LED. Either way, battery-life will obviously be improved.
• Sony is considering bluetooth capabilities.
• Underneath the screen is the home button, the brightness controls and the volume button. This revision will also include all-new controls for chapter skipping with UMD movies and music tracks.
• Not 8GB of on-board memory. 4GB is more likely. However, the storage capacity could change.

Again, we're just reporting unofficial info here. We also clarify that we wish not to discredit any of the various sources lately popping out regarding the looming PSP redesign. The best we can offer for now is a guarantee that QJ.net will be keeping its eyes glued to various channels until we flesh out what's the real deal with this issue.

Until that time comes, we're all free to speculate right?

DeadZone has released v5.0 of his DeFlasher application for the PSP. Now titled DeFlasher Edition No-Limits version 5.0, it seems you can now place an unlimited number of items for DeFlasher to flash onto your PSP, allowing for quick customization once you have everything set up.

Since our Spanish skills aren't up to snuff, here's a direct quote of DeadZone's English translation from our forums:

New update, this time themes, and all rco's, background, icons, battery, etc, etc,,, can be put in the folder with the name that is wanted and the program recognizes them. Whatever can be put are wanted, single is necessary the architecture of folders that I include (the same one that in the previous version) but without the captures.

Single it is necessary to put the folder that defines yours theme with his rco's and captura.png in the corresponding folder

The capture no longer is obligatory to have it within the folder where subjects and others lodge, but is then is not shown and if this and is called captura.png (270x153) it showed preview thus to be able to see that flashing.

As with other flashing applications, make sure to read the directions on the readme and be very careful. Flashing apps can brick your PSP if done improperly. If you're thinking about using this homebrew app and have questions, feel free to check our forum thread below so you can ask questions or search for additional information. In the meantime, you can also watch a video of the application in action below. Enjoy!



Download: DeFlasher Edition No-Limits v5.0
Visit: PSP Development Forums

It was bound to happen. With all talks of Sony's PlayStation Portable being too bulky and too heavy especially compared to its main competitor - the Nintendo DS - it's only a matter of time before Sony gave in to the calls for a PSP redesign. Kotaku now has a post up revealing some details regarding the upcoming "toned down" version of PSP, information they claim to have come from "several sources close to Sony".

As expected, Sony focused on giving it a slimmer design which Kotaku credits on "a new LED screen that will deliver an ultra-crisp image but take up far less space". Hardware specs are to be retained (meaning it should be as homebrew- and hack-friendly as the current-gen PSPs) but the sexier model should have a longer battery life (again thanks to the new LED that appears to consume less power), a faster version of the UMD drive (giving us better loading times and gameplay), and an 8GB worth of internal flash memory.

A built-in camera and glossy or matte finish is still being decided. Kotaku assumes the new unit to cost buyers US$ 170, with a release date somewhere between August and September. The redesigned PSP will allegedly highlight Sony's booth in E3.

What strikes me as surprising though is that according to Kotaku, the phonenixified PSP will carry a completely overhauled set of controls (they compared it to PlayStation 3's D-pad actually). This is a bold move for Sony considering that most of the games out today are coded using the current PSP's controls. It can also mean a nightmare for developers of PSP games since it could translate to two sets of control schemes to develop for.

Should we expect the two generations of the PSP to carry completely different control schemes? I'm still putting my money the redesigned PSP having the same control schemes but perhaps an improved analog stick and better button placing. Sony just can't afford to have the headaches two PSP versions having completely different controls will definitely bring.

Thanks Ninjax for the heads up!

Forum member psp phd (also known as Mr. Shizzy) has released an update for his PSP theme flasher on QJ.NET's PSP Development forums. Called PSP Wardrobe, this homebrew app lets users easily flash a theme for their PSPs. It can currently handle up to 24 full XMB themes and lets users see a preview of a selected theme.

With this update, PSP Wardrobe is now at version 0.4. Here's a list of what's changed since the last version:

• Boots up faster (all saftey checks are still in tact though)
• Increased supported number of themes from 10 to 24
• Increased supported number of XMB Mods from 1 of each mod to 12 of each mod-
• now fullscreen previews of all mods & themes
• New main menu art by Mr_Nick666
• Added Create-A-Theme feature
• USB MOD (L & R shoulder buttons activate/deactivate USB in Wardrobe main menu)
• Cleaned up a bit. All preview screens now go in PSP>>GAME150>>Wardrobe>>" Preview Screens" Folder
• bug fixes

Finally, PSP Wardrobe is for the 3.30 OE, 3.30 OE-A' and 3.40 OE custom firmwares. As with any homebrew app that uses the PSP's flash memory, be very careful when installing this program as there's always a chance of bricking your PSP. For more information as well as installation instructions, please read the readme file included in the download. Also check out the video of it in action below.

Download: PSP Wardrobe v.4
Visit: QJ.NET's PSP Development forums

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