Gizmondo launches in the U.K. and store allocation units run out, although no one said exactly how many that was. As Sony has already announced a European delay in the launch of its PSP handheld, hinting at a June release, Gizmondo was quick to apply for the post of Nintendo's European Nemesis.
Love it or hate it, Tiger Telematics, the Jacksonville, Florida-based parent company of the Gizmondo, is putting a lot of effort into its console. Before Sony got into the game, the term handheld excitement alluded to other lonelier pastimes, but as the giants have engaged the public with their almighty press machinery, Gizmondo has managed to capitalize and secure some interesting backing. We have already read a lot about the game publishers that have pledged support for the handheld but most interesting is the possibility of a strong Microsoft involvement, beyond the GZ Windows-based OS.
In order to prove its status in the market, Gizmondo Europe invited a host of well-known music stars to participate in the UK launch. Since a music service for the handheld is already in place, the presence of well known artists is understandable. On Saturday March 19 London's Regent Street came to a near standstill as over 2000 fans swarmed the store to see Pharrell Williams, Dannii Minogue, Verne Troyer, Busta Rhymes and Lennox Lewis pop by the shop on it's opening day, and to get their hands on the first Gizmondos. The store's allocation of units was completely gone before the doors were finally shut again at 6pm to prepare for the evening event.
Tiger Telematics' CEO, Michael Carrender spoke to the crowds and hinted that the handheld will continue to evolve even after you buy it with updates and new services, ...we have some great content in the pipeline and enhancements to our already wide range of features that will secure our place as the only true multi-functional entertainment device on the market today.
The Gizmondo launch party later that evening at Piccadilly's Park Lane Hotel was one of the most star-studded events of the year. With performances from Sting, Jamiroquai, Pharrell Williams, Clipse and Busta Rhymes, the VIP guest list was overwhelmed with an A-list line up hosted by US comedian, Tom Green, and Aussie babe favourite, Dannii Minogue. In addition to over 2000 Gizmondo fans, the who's who of London's trend-setting fashion, music and film scenes converged and carried the party into the small hours of the morning.
The Gizmondo device and its games are in retail stores now in the UK, and in North American and Continental Europe markets from Spring 2005. US, UK and European residents can also
