Culver City (CA) - PSP owners will finally make good use out of the system’s voice-over IP functionality, with the official addition of a custom version of the online calling service Skype.

With the next scheduled firmware update, users will be able to download a completely functional version of Skype for the PSP. In addition to making phone calls to existing Skype users, PSP owners will be able to manage their contacts list, see who’s online and who’s not, make and calls to/from actual telephone numbers, and have complete access to Skype account settings.

According to Sony, this functionality only works properly with the newer slim version of the PSP, further creating obsolescence for the original model.

The firmware update is slated for the end of this month. A Skype icon will be added to the "Network" category of the PSP’s Xross Media Bar. Users will also be able to create a Skype account directly from the portable system. The feature will require a nominal download, so a Memory Stick will be needed to access the program.