The LCD is the face of a PSP, and it is an important feature of the 3000 model…

Thus said Sony chief Shawn Layden in a press briefing announcing the new Playstation Portable 3000 which will be sold starting Oct. 16 in Japan. Below is an Associated Press photo of Layden showing off the new gadget.

According to a Reuters report, the PSP-3000 will feature “a built-in microphone and advanced liquid crystal display panel that is better suited for use outdoors and offers a shorter response time than the existing machine”.

TGDaily says the new PSP will be sold for $180 (8,200++ Philippine pesos).

The PSP-3000 will be sold in the United Kingdom starting Oct. 17, according to the game site play.tm.

Suggested retail price in Britain is 149.99 pounds (12,301++ Philippine pesos).