Sony says that the coming months’ Vita updates will include the device’s loss of the YouTube app, Maps app, as well as some Near features.

The Maps app, that acts as a navigation tool on the device, will be completely phased out along with some still unspecified features of Near, the app that allows users to socialize with one another in public spaces, and rewards them for updating it in unique locations.

Sony has not yet given any reason for the loss of these apps or Near’s reduced functionality.

On April 20th, the Vita’s YouTube app will be completely removed from all devices it currently exists on. It is already unavailable for download.

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My Opinion:

If Sony needs to tighten the belt on some of the Vita’s capabilities, I’m glad it’s on the apps I use the least. I don’t think I’ve ever opened the Maps app, and I never downloaded the app for YouTube. If I ever have the desire to watch a YouTube video on my Vita, I’m sure the system’s browser will still offer that option.

Depending on how deep the cut is to the Near app, I may be a little more disappointed to lose the ability to see what people in my area are playing (depriving me of some of my more voyeuristic tendencies). Seeing as that seems most connected to the loss of the Maps app, it may be what Sony is alluding to. Still, these changes don’t affect the Vita’s strengths: AAA handheld experiences, exclusive games, and remote play.

Jordan Loeffler is an Associate Editor for MONG. His Vita saved many gaming nights after the sorrowful loss of a PlayStation 3. You can also follow him on IGN and on Twitter.