In a recently-published interview, Kenji Matsuoka, the Sony worker who led PSX development, talked about the new console's genesis. He also revealed a new corporate partnership, and speculated on future software-based upgrades for the PSX.

　　Matsuoka revealed that the PSX that hits the stores in Japan next month will have one small difference from the prototypes displayed at CEATEC: a G-GUIDE logo on the front panel. G-GUIDE is the Japanese name for the electric programming guide that Sony has selected for the PSX. Produced by U.S. company Gemstar, the publisher of TV Guide, G-GUIDE will broadcast updated information to PSX consoles four times per day. Although Gemstar also offers this information as a download service, Sony decided to stick with broadcast delivery in the expectation that some PSX buyers would not have their consoles hooked up to a network.

　　Gemstar also offers this electric programming guide in the U.S. and Europe; in those markets it is branded as TV Guide On Screen and Guide Plus+ respectively. Although there has been no announcement to date, it seems likely that the Sony/Gemstar partnership will extend to these markets when PSX sales start there.

　　Matsuoka also spoke about the genesis of the PSX, and the reason why Sony decided to use the PS2 processor and graphics engine in its newest console. Matsuoka was involved with creating the Blu-ray Disc before being given charge of the PSX project, so his first inclination was to approach the PSX as an AV device rather than a gaming platform, and there was no internal mandate to use PS2 technology. However, according to Matsuoka, his team's goal was to create "a GUI that would be easy to understand even for people that barely look at the manual," and they decided that the PS2 processor was the best tool for this.

　　The PSX team realized that they wanted their new device to have the same rapid processing capabilities and high usability of the PS2. To create the data-rich, highly intuitive interface that they envisioned, the PSX team needed a powerful processor and graphics engine, and they realized that PS2 technology was a perfect solution. According to the ZDNet article, this will allow fast searches and smooth operation even when the user is dealing with large volumes of media.

　　Using PS2 technology also had another benefit: it will allow PSX owners to add new capabilities through software modifications. This would not be possible if the console was built as a standard A/V device. The concept of building a machine around a well-understood processor and adding capabilities through software has its roots in the PC industry, but the PSX development team found it was equally applicable to A/V devices. The PS2 chip is powerful, and has also been the focus of intense cost engineering, so it was a natural choice for the heart of the PSX.

　　Matsuoka mentioned CDDB capability as one likely PSX upgrade, and said that feedback from users would help determine what additional functions would be developed.

　　In response to a question about the release date, Matsuoka responded that Sony hasn't named a specific date yet because the company is trying to get a more exact picture of demand. "Our biggest concern is retailers running out of stock," he said, so the company is working to evaluate initial demand and make sure there is enough inventory when the PSX hits the stores. He concluded the interview by saying that production was proceeding smoothly and the device will be released in Japan before the end of the year as previously announced.

　　While numerous outlets are picking up the news, the interview first ran on ZDNet Japan.