From GayGamer: PSP-3000 Design In Progress?

Asterick posted this Rumorama on GayGamer earlier today, and while I'd say that hardware design cycles almost certainly do overlap, it's still a bit soon to see a third hardware refresh of the PSP. However, I do expect that eventual refresh to include a built-in mic and a PlayStation-rebranded "home" button, so I give you Astie's bit o' gossip:

It seems like just yesterday the PSP-2000 was released. Could it be possible that just as Sony is pushing one model onto the market, they are already on redesign number two? These photos surfaced on a Chinese BBS, indicating that that it might actually be true!

The obvious differences is the replacement of the "Home" button with a "PS" button. This could be to unify the platform with the PS3. Additionally, a new hole in the case has surfaced next to the volume control buttons. Some speculate that this hole is a built in microphone.

My thoughts? It looks a lot like a cheap case replacement. The buttons have a beveled, recessed look, where as the other models have a smooth extruded or flush look. The hole could just be a hole, or for a speaker. Not to mention that the silver finish looks kinda cheap, however that might just be the camera.

PSP3000? [PSP China BBS]
[via Gizmodo]