A new rumor today from a "highly-trusted" source at VG247 indicates that Sony is reportedly slated to introduce a redesigned PSP this year. The PSP-4000 would have internals fundamentally identical to the existing PSP-3000 but would switch from the fixed-in-place screen that has dominated the console to a design with a Sidekick-like sliding screen. It would represent a "complete aesthetic overhaul" of the PSP, the tip says, and partly resembles a mockup circulating online (pictured).

Sony hasn't commented on the reported plans. The company has repeatedly denied rumors of an outright PSP sequel but hasn't yet refuted claims of further revisions to the existing PSP, which has been criticized for its bulk relative to the Nintendo DS and lately to the iPod touch.

A job listing at SCEI Japan has fueled speculating by asking for a worker who would help test new game machines.

PSP slider mockup