Sony Japan has offered preliminary details on a major update to the PSP's networking capabilities. First and foremost will be direct access to the PlayStation Store, cutting out the PC or PS3.

The update is planned for Autumn in Japan and will enable players to get demos and suchlike without connecting to their PC or PS3. There's no word on a European release as yet.

While on the one hand Sony is making the PSP less dependant on the PS3, on the other it is increasing the handheld's interaction with the home console. Sony will be adding further connectivity between the two devices by enabling owners of both machines to connect to PSP multiplayer games via the PS3.

While that might seem like it's adding an unnecessary middle man, it will add functionality such as text and voice chat as well as using the PS3 for matchmaking. Currently, Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G (which has sold over 2 million copies in Japan) has been confirmed for the service.

Sony will also be releasing a 'proper' PSP version of Mainichi Issyo, a sort-of game that is already playable on the PSP via remote play, in Japan. As it is on the PS3, the game will be free.

^{Source: IGN}