PSP Unit Owners Warned Of Using Handhelds With Bloated Batteries

Most people are left to stay at home these days due to the growing COVID-19 pandemic. Some have resorted to video games to keep them busy, some even turning to old gaming handhelds or consoles. In the case of handheld devices such as the PlayStation Portable (PSP), it may be wise to make a quick check of the unit first before turning it on.

Considering the PSP first came out in 2004 and was discontinued in 2014, only a handful may still be playing it. Different handhelds followed, not to mention mobile phones now the fad for avid gamers. Still, some prefer to play some retro games available on their old PSP units. Considering most are limited at home and prefer not to spend, using old game consoles or handhelds is the economical way to go.

Before turning them on, it is advisable to first check if their batteries are still in proper order. Most know that units like the PSP rely on lithium batteries which are good only for a certain period. They eventually dilapidation over time, some possibly swelling. If such is the case, it may be wise to hold off using the PSP.

Though the obvious reason behind the possible swelling of batteries is time, there are other factors to consider. IT Media points out how these almost-forgotten units may have collected dust over time. However, bloating batteries is not surprising. Some see it happening to some mobile phones and the only remedy for that is to replace it. Some sample photos courtesy of Twitter users can provide a better display on how bad these battery swelling cases could be below.

Before getting dismayed, it may be wise to note that this battery-swelling occurrence on PSPs does not follow for all. Some are still usable, meaning folks can still turn it on and play.

Sony confirmed to IT Media (via Kotaku) and said that these batteries have life spans that decrease over time. Owners are discouraged from using them with bloated batteries. They also advised not to use the handheld without the battery cover.