PSP Firmware Update 5.50 Detailed; Garbage Trial Software Coming

Over on the PlayStation Blog, PSP firmware v. 5.50 was detailed in a blog post by Eric Lempel, Director of PlayStation Network Operations.

Improvements to Memory Stick access including the ability to organize data in sub-folders and reduced reserved-space on your card are nice mods. Also, you’ll be able to gain info easily about your games directly from the XMB. All you have to do is click on Triangle (Options) and you can search out expanded info.

Such features seem a little light for their own version update, however. They would be, except that Sony has obviously struck a revenue-generating deal with Trend Micro. Apparently, trial web security software will be automatically installed onto your handheld. (Not a good move Sony!)

Below you’ll find the press details released on the blog:

• Memory Stick improvements – You’ll be able to create and access sub-folders on your Memory Stick PRO Duo for music, videos and photos. Separately, the available space required to download a file from PlayStation Store to your Memory Stick has been reduced significantly.
• Internet search for games directly from the XMB – You’ll be able to easily search the Internet for information about your PSP games. Select the icon for the game, hit the Triangle button, and then select [Internet Search] from the options menu to get search results based on the game title. This feature was added to PS3 with the recent 2.70 update.
• Trend Micro trial – PSP’s Internet browser is a great tool for checking out your favorite Web sites on the go, and we’re teaming up with the Internet security experts at Trend Micro to make the Web browsing experience safer and more secure. With the 5.50 update, you’ll have the option to access a free trial of two Trend Micro services:

1. Trend Micro Web Security uses Web reputation technology to block PSP owners from accidentally visiting a Web site that may contain malicious content designed to steal personal information and confidential data.
2. Trend Micro Kids’ Safety uses URL filtering technology to prevent children from accessing Web sites that feature inappropriate content.