Japanese users (of which there are many, interestingly), will be getting direct access to the PlayStation Store next week, from October 15th.

Sony's direct access site will be accessible via WiFi, and it means PSP users won't need to go through a or a to get into the store.

A new update for the Portable will also see players able to launch ad hoc simply by connecting to the PlayStation Network via their PS3; Portable 2nd G will be make use of this fresh functionality, crucially.

We've no word on a Western launch for these features yet, but naturally we'll keep you posted.

By Luke Guttridge