Following an unconfirmed report posted on PSP Updates that the recently released 3.50 firmware for the PlayStation Portable had unlocked the full CPU potential of the handheld comes word from Shacknews that the report is legit, having verified the news with Sony Computer Entertainment. The PSP was earlier software capped at 266 MHz, largely presumed to help extend battery life.

Developers now have the option to code for the PSP’s 333 MHz processor speed, a move that will hopefully translate into better looking games running at a higher or more consistent frame rate.

Could this mean Sony is also planning on introducing a longer life battery? Does it lend more weight to rumors of a PSP redesign with decreased power consumption? I suspect we’ll hear more about this change soon, directly from Sony.

Sony Confirms Full PSP CPU Speed [ShackNews]