Sony has officially confirmed the Sony PS Vita release date with the next-generation portable PlayStation console to hit Japanese markets on December 17th.

 

Whilst a Sony PlayStation Vita UK release date has yet to be announced Sony has confirmed that the PSP replacement will hit stores in its native Japan just one week ahead of Christmas suggesting a European arrival will fall after the New Year.


Set to boast a 1.5GHz ARM A9 quad-core processor from launch the PS Vita will feature a 5-inch 960 x 544p OLED display as well as landing in both Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi plus 3G forms. The Wi-Fi + 3G model is to hit Japan priced 29,980 YEN (£247) with the Wi-Fi only version to sport a 24.980 (£206) price tag.

 

Standard analogue sticks and PlayStation-esque gamepad controls are to be further plumped by a three-axis gyroscope, accelerometer, electronic compass and shoulder buttons. Front and rear mounted cameras complete the Vita’s bag of tricks alongside a rear mounted touch panel.
 
 

Seemingly confirmed by the official announcement recent PS Vita rumours have suggested the console will hit the UK in March following a period of exclusivity in Japan.

 

Were you hoping to snap up a PS Vita in time for Christmas or are you happy sticking to the Nintendo 3DS? Let us know via the T3 Twitter and Facebook feeds.