Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced the PlayStation Protection Plan, an extended service offer for the PlayStation 3 (PS3 and PSP (PlayStation Portable) systems.

Under the new program, PS3 and PSP owners in the United States can purchase an extended service plan of one or two years that begins after the original one-year manufacturer's limited warranty expires. PSP owners can also choose the Accidental Damage Plan, which adds coverage for cracked-screen damage in the event of an unexpected drop.

With the PlayStation Protection Plan, users can extend the same coverage from the original manufacturer's one-year warranty for one or two additional years. The pricing includes all shipping charges and repairs, which are performed by PlayStation-trained service technicians using official parts at SCEA-authorized repair facilities. The PlayStation Protection Plan is available beginning in May 2010 and will be priced competitively.

- PS3 - 1-year extension ($44.99) or 2-year extension ($59.99)

- PSP - 1-year extension ($29.99) or 2-year extension ($39.99)

- PSP with Accidental Damage - 1-year extension ($39.99) or 2-year extension ($49.99)

The PlayStation Protection Plan is available to PS3 or PSP owners (both the PSP-3000 and PSPgo systems) who are still within their one-year limited manufacturer's warranty, as well as new purchasers. The PSP Accidental Damage Plan must be purchased within the first 30 days of owning a PSP system, and the plan is effective beginning on the purchase date. Starting this month, users can purchase the PlayStation Protection Plan by calling 1-866-716-7669. For additional details and to review the Terms and Conditions, visit http://us.playstation.com/support/protection-plan/index.htm