Old tech: PlayStation 2's internet connectivity and Hard drive storage

When PlayStation 2 released wayback in 2000, the world went gaga over it. Long lines at stores, supply shortages, and related crimes due to Sony's newest gaming console at the time. One of the features of this console is the capability to connect to the internet. Sony released it as an accessory, they call it PlayStation BB Unit (BB stands for Broadband). 

Sony brand HDD for PlayStation 2 (SCPH-20401)

Initially, the first three Japan only models used an external HDD with PCMCIA port while the later models (30000 to 55000 series) used an expansion bay slot underneath the console. PS2 models from 70000 to 90000 series omits the HDD features but broadband jack is built-in to the console. They using a software that they called the PlayStation Broadband Navigator that installs to the HDD. The console is using an IDE Hard drive which is jurassic and outdated in today's standards.

PS2 models (SCPH-50000 and 39000) 

The PS BB Navigator can be used to play games online, download demo games, browse game channels, check emails, and play audio files. Sony also released a video to promote it in Japan. The first time I saw this feature is when I used to have the PSX multimedia console. I think the PS BB Navigator is the predecessor of what is the PlayStation Store and other online offerings right now. Sadly, Sony killed the BB Navigator in 2016 lasting for more than a decade. 

Progress bar in installing the BB Navigator

Some hackers where able to exploit the software and patching it with English menus and able to use the software offline, as the software is meant for Japanese only consoles. They were also able to circumvent the restriction of using a Sony brand HDD and using any IDE HDD available in the market. Take note that regardless of a modified PS2 console with US/ Europe console, the software will not install, as the software will only boot to a for Japanese PS2 console. By the way, when I searched the net, I found a guide on how to install the software to your PlayStation 2, which is very helpful to retro gamers.

Error prompt while installation

Right now, I am looking for the original disc of the BB Navigator so that I could install the game caches of IIDX 5th style and GITADORA.

Uniqlo's x Gundam: Gundam's 40th year anniversary

Today (8 June 2020), Uniqlo Philippines just released their new UT shirts despite of COVID-19 pandemic. This is in collaboration of Uniqlo and Gundam for it's franchise's 40th year anniversary. This is not the first time that Uniqlo and Gundam had a collaboration, but this is the second time that Bandai released a Uniqlo limited edition Gunpla kits for Free! Also, this is the first time that Uniqlo Philippines is part of free Uniqlo Gunpla kits. Only three stores in the Philippines offers Gundam UT shirts (Uniqlo Manila Flagship Store in Makati, SM Megamall, and SM Mall Of Asia). In Japan, Uniqlo advertised it as part of Spring lineup. Youtube link in Japanese.

Every customer who bought 2 Gundam UT's will get a free Uniqlo limited edition Gunpla kits. The featured kits are Amuro Ray's RX-78-2 Gundam and Char Aznable's MS-06S Zaku II, both are in 1/144 scale. These kits are in Uniqlo's red and white colors. The shirt cost 790.00Php each.

I rushed to the Uniqlo Manila Flagship Store after work. I went straight to the Gundam UT shirts that are located at the second floor. I bought a Gunpla runner and Nu Gundam design shirt. According to the sales crew, there was a long line outside the store and all them are Gundam enthusiasts. 

For Gundam enthusiats, Uniqlo will be giving free kits starting June 8 to 14, 2020. Get your UT's and kits before its gone.