Know how your PlayStation Vita can be your cellphone

Though Sony had launched the Xperia Play to catch up with the need of adding phonetic functionality in accompanied with a full-fledged gaming device, the compromise had bounced back due to the partially updated Android OS library which let the users only to play a couple of old game titles on a much hyped gadget.

Skype Call

On the contrary, Sony's new comer in the gaming field, the PlayStation Vita, is equipped with updated software library offering numerous console-quality experiences, but this device, like other hardcore gaming firmwares, lacks ample facilities for mobile connectivity. Though the 3G variant offers a contract-free cellular connection to get everything ranging from Web surfing to multiplayer gaming, but it also doesn't have a voice calling option.

The recent release of a Skype app by Sony has created the possibilities for a PlayStation phone come alive. The process of getting it working is given under, but, the level of this functionality depends upon the user's experience.

Steps to get Skype installed

1. The required device here is the 3G version of PlayStation Vita. It may cost you $50 more than the Wi-Fi one, i.e. about $300.
2. Buy a suitable data plan keeping the call-time data streaming in mind (about 1MB/minute).
3. Download the Skype app for PS Vita from the here.
4. Next, buy a Skype calling plan according to your needs. Choose a plan according to the country where you reside.
5. Now you can make calls from your PS Vita. For receiving calls, purchase an 'online number' from Skype. for which you have to shell out an extra $30/year or $2.50/month.
6. For saving your contacts, buy another 3rd party plugin Synqit ($9.50), for shifting all the contacts from your various accounts ( e.g. Google Android phone) to the Skype account.
7. Keep the app always running so as to get call alerts even while the device is in 'sleep mode'.