Rumor: Sony to release PlayStation phone in 2010

This is a story we’ve heard about for a long time. Of course we would all love to see a phone capable to taking full advantage of the PlayStation Network but until now we had given up on the thought.

The Wall Street Journal reports that Sony will release a new smartphone in 2010 that will rival the iPhone. The phone is said to be made by Sony Ericsson. It will be capable of downloading and playing PlayStation games.

In addition to that, WSJ also says Sony is working on a product that is a hybrid between an e-reader, PSP and netbook. It would be a competitor to Apple’s upcoming iPad device.

This story follows reports of Sony looking to unite the PlayStation Network through a number of devices that use a single user ID. The Sony Online service would be spread out across MP3 players, eBook readers, televisions and other devices. A smartphone would certainly cover most of those bases. It would also be a way for Sony to monetize the PlayStation Network which is something the company has expressed interest in. Perhaps instead of Sony directly charging to access the network, it will take a cut from wireless providers every month.

Via [Wall Street Journal] Read [Gamertell]