Sony has just announced a new version of its PlayStation Portable for 2007. The Japan-only "PSP 1000-CG" isn't the kind of Nintendo DS-Lite-esque overhaul and re-design many have been expecting, but instead it provides the chance for those style-conscious individuals in society to own a gold coloured handheld console.

The single promotional picture on offer displays the new machine in all its simple elegance. It looks like the perfect gadget to show off amongst friends, but might also turn out to be a bit of a 'mugger magnet' when brandishing it out on the street, thanks to its distinctive and desirable appearance.

Other than the dramatic makeover, it doesn't appear that there are any hardware changes to the console itself. However, importers beware! Although the new PSP is region free in terms of games software (capable of playing any titles from across the globe) it is also locked in terms of its UMD movie playback, meaning that the gold edition is only compatible with Region 2 software (typically that from the Middle East, Japan and Western Europe).

In 2005, Sony held its very own invitation-only fashion show, which was pretentiously named "Pret a PSP," where celebrity faces including David Arquette and Courtney Cox were amongst the attendees. However, the biggest curiosity for gamers was the exhibition of three exclusive PSP fashion accessories - one of which was a pure gold and diamond encrusted handheld. And the price we hear you ask? A snip at just $35,000 USD.

You're probably best sticking with the fake gold one we've shown off to you today, we reckon.