Sony promises to double PSP battery life

After coming up against much criticism for what many have named the 'short-life battery pack', Sony has announced it is to release a new battery pack for its Portable PlayStation that it claims will double the operating time of the new Slim & Lite handheld.

The PSP Extended Battery Kit, which is thicker than the standard battery featured in the Slim & Lite Portable PlayStation, contains a more advanced power cell, according to the firm.

The device, which will also work with the original Portable PlayStation, will be released next month in the US for $44.99 (£22). A UK release date has yet to be announced.