Control iTunes on a Mac from your PSP

Mindola has released a new version of a Mac application I had never heard of before: PatioTunes.

What it really does is allow iTunes on a Mac to be controlled from any other computer on your home network with a web browser. Once you fire up a browser and load the URL provided to you by the PatioTunes server, you can

• Pick artists
• Pick albums
• Pick playlists
• Control play and pause
• Control the volume

With the latest version, you can also control PatioTunes from a number of WiFi-enabled handhelds, most notably the Sony PSP.

PatioTunes sells for only $15, but you can try it free for 14 days.

Protective Silicon Case

A new PSP site, PSPStyles.com, is offering a form-fitting silicone case for the PSP.

Unlike other silicone cases, the smooth surface of this case resists dust and doesn't become sticky. There are cutouts to access all controls and ports, and the case is comfortable and washable.

Waiting for a white PSP? Wait no longer! This case comes in white, as well as black.

This case is available for $12.99.

Another Cool Speaker/Grip Combo from Logic3

Logic3 has an interesting portable speaker solution that also provides grips: the Sound Grip.

The Sound Grip is powered by two AAA batteries, and produces 1W of power to each channel. Once attached, it still allows complete access to all controls, and provides pass-through ports for sound and power. It also comes with a stand for long-term viewing, and a case to carry the Sound Grip, a PSP, and the stand.

PSP World has a terrific, in-depth review of the Sound Grip, and they give it an A- rating.

Get it all for just $34.99.

Replacement Faceplates on the Horizon

I've had readers ask about the availability of replacement faceplates, evidently because the ones that come on the PSP are easy for some people to scratch (mine's like new of course!).

Xtreme Enterprises has announced that they will be selling replacement faceplates (code-named "Asterix") in a variety of colors, beginning in September.

From their website:

"This is a full one-to-one faceplate replacement whose colors and designs are bound to capture the attention of your gaming buddies. Installation will be a breeze as online instructions will be provided."

No word yet on price.


(from insanePSP)

Another Grip Solution

Radica Games, under their Gamester brand, has a protective enclosure for the PSP which provides protection for the screen, rubberized grips, and even acts as a stand for video viewing: Black Comfort Grips.

You still get complete access to ports and controls, and the grips will fold away when not in use.

All the new items from Radica will be available on September 1st to coincide with the European launch of the PSP.

Pelican's Face Armor is also a Glare Shield

Pelican has come out with a protective hard cover called Face Armor.

The face armor clamps down over the top of your PSP to protect the LCD screen and buttons. The shield connects to the top center of your PSP so you can access the USB jack, the UMD disc cover, and the L and R triggers. The nice part is that you can flip the armor up and it serves as a glare shield and gives you privacy.

Face Armor also includes four disc jackets that protect the business sides of your UMDs.

You can buy this handy item for only $6.99 at Buy.com.

Not Just Another Screen Protector

Brando makes a protective shield that is more than just a screen protector: The PSP Crystal Hard Cover.

This rigid, transparent cover protects the entire top of your PSP. But here’s the good part: It covers your directional pad on the left with a joystick, and the buttons on the right are raised up, also.

You can get one for less than MSRP at Harts Unlimited, just $9.95.

Still Another Leather PSP Case from Noreve

Noreve has a great leather case for the PSP: The Noreve Tradition.

According to a wonderful and in-depth review at PSPworld, the Tradition is superior to other PDA-style cases. It does a much better job of protecting the sides of the PSP, and has a hatch for the UMD door with a snap closure. In addition to holding your PSP, there are slots for two DUO memory sticks and one UMD.

It comes in three colors: Black, Grey and Pink. The Tradition sells for 45.90EUR, or about $87.

Grip Dock Brings Comfort to Obsessive Players

PSP 411 reports on a soon-to-be-released attachment for the PSP which provides hand grips, a rechargeable battery, speakers, and more: The Grip Dock.

Features:

• Extended game play comfort
• Rechargeable battery pack for extended play time (4 AA)
• Intake fan and handle vent holes for hand cooling
• Rubber inserts with embossed logo grip
• Amplified speakers
• Dual audio headphone ports
• LED Battery level indicator
• AC/DC In port for charging/playing
• DC Adapter included

The Grip Dock looks pretty interesting! No news on price yet, but it is reported to be released on August 24th.

Great New Wallpaper Site

Who wants a boring background on their PSP, anyway? If you're looking for great wallpapers (and part of "great" would include "free"), check out themepsp.com.

They have an amazing variety of stunning wallpapers. You can get landscapes, animation stills, shots from favorite movies, and more.

Again, not only is the selection interesting... the price is right.


(from PSP Home)

Yet Another Speaker System from Radica

Radica USA has announced a speaker system for the PSP: The Home Station.

From their press release:

"The Home Station makes the PSP the ultimate entertainment system in your home, on your desk – wherever, whenever. Simply insert the PSP into the Home Station cradle to enjoy movies with high quality sound whilst the battery is being re-charged. The Home Station includes USB connection, works with an AC adapter or batteries and folds up for storage."

Radica plans to release the Home Station in September to coincide with the European release of the PSP.

(from PSP411)