Gadget wars are Go with new Sony PSP

Christmas "gadget wars" are set to kick off tomorrow when Sony releases a new hand-held games console.

The electronics giant hopes the new PSP Go will take on Apple's iPod and Nintendo's DS. Instead of storing games on a disc or cartridge, the new console allows users to download them via a wireless internet connection.

Half the size and weight of the original PSP console, the £225 gadget can also be connected to a computer or PlayStation 3 games console to download films and other content. Sony is specifically targeting the iPod with the new device. Apple has enjoyed huge success with the product since allowing people to download games. More than two billion applications have since been taken up. Sony plans to offer a similar service, allowing "mini" games to be downloaded to the PSP Go. Later this year mood-sensing software, called Sense Me, will be launched for the PSP Go that can tailor musical playlists based on the user's mood.

Sony Computer Entertainment president Kaz Hirai said: "We want to attract people interested in digital entertainment as well as just games.

"There will be more content that is easier to get on your PSP. It's entertainment everywhere, and it's built for people who live a more digital lifestyle. It's designed to bring all kinds of content to the PSP."