PSP2 dev kit snaps show twin sticks, trackpad [Update]

"Boom."

VG247 has obtained the world's first images of a PSP2 dev kit.

The shots clearly show the device's forward- and rear-facing cameras, as well as the much-discussed trackpad on the rear of the unit.

Note that this isn't the console's final form factor. As you can see, some developers are working with a kit with similar construction to a PSP go at the moment - see the update below - with a sliding screen over physical controls. We don't know when the final physical spec will be nailed down, only that this isn't it.

We were first told PSP2 kits were in developers' hands early this year.

It has an HD screen. The last set of rumours surrounding the handheld said the chipset has yet to be finalised.

The machine is rumoured to be extremely powerful, with approximately twice as much RAM as a 360.

EA has confirmed it's had "exposure" to the unit, and developer Netherrealm has openly admitted it's working with a kit.

PSP2 is supposedly heading for release in late 2011.

If you're in any doubt as to the authenticity of these images, don't be. It is what it is. Enjoy.

Update: We've been told by a source that these images are from the last kit. There's a newer one, which is a single, non-sliding block. Remember those last Kotaku rumours of the unit overheating? Sony switched back a form like PSP-1000 in order to cool it down.