Here’s what the new PS5 and PS4 beta firmware updates will bring
New system software updates are coming to the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 tomorrow for those participating in PlayStation’s beta program. Ahead of that, Sony has given us an idea of what we can expect.
The big change coming to both platforms is the new “community-requested” Open Parties update. I’m going to be honest and say that parties on consoles really aren’t my thing, so rather than rewording all of the changes and maybe getting something wrong, here are the details directly from Sony:
- Open and Closed Parties (PS5 and PS4 betas)
- When you start a party, you can now select either an open party or a closed party:
- An open party lets your friends see and join the party without an invite. Friends of party members can also join.
- A closed party is only for players you invite.
- Note: in Game Base on PS5 and Party on PS4, if you select [Open Party] when starting a party, only players using the beta version of the PS5 or PS4 system software will be able to join. To start a party that players who aren’t using the beta version can also join, select [Closed Party].
- When you start a party, you can now select either an open party or a closed party:
From there, you’ll now be able to: more easily report inappropriate conversations in voice chats (PS5), start Share Play directly from the voice chat card (PS5), start Share Screen from the Create menu (PS5), individually adjust the volume of each member member of a party like you already can on PS5 (PS4), filter your game collection by genre (PS5), and more.
And though we somehow still don’t have folders on the PlayStation 5 more than a year after its launch, you will now be able to pin up to five games or apps to your home screen to always have them accessible there. Meanwhile, a total of 14 games and apps can now appear on that same home screen.
To check out the rest of the new features and updates coming in tomorrow’s system software beta update—including a voice command preview for U.S. and U.K. residents—check out the full PlayStation Blog post on the rollout of the beta.
Source: PlayStation Blog
Mollie got her start in games media via the crazy world of gaming fanzines, and now works at EGM with the goal of covering all of the weird Japanese and niche releases that nobody else on staff cares about. She’s active in the gaming community on a personal level, and an outspoken voice on topics such as equality in gaming, consumer rights, and good UI. Check her out on Twitter and Mastodon.
