Sony has released a new firmware update for the PS5. Numbered at version 25.02-11.00.00, the update brings with it more fleshed out Activity details on cards, while still keeping potential spoilers hidden from players that may not have reached those parts of the games yet.
All things considered, this is a relatively minor update for the PS5, since other features introduced include support for Unicode 16.0 emojis through PSN messages, and more options for parental controls through restriction levels. All of this is accompanied by general improvements to system software performance and stability, as well as improvements to messages and usability.
The update comes a bit after Sony unveiled its Beta Program Initiative. As part of the new initiative, PlayStation is bringing more in-depth beta testing directly to players. Through it, players can test out beta releases of games and PS5 software features, as well as beta updates for the PlayStation App, and even PC releases of PlayStation games.
“Over the years, many of you have participated in various beta programs across Sony Interactive, which has helped us deliver the best possible gaming experiences to gamers around the world,” said SIE Content Communications senior director Sid Shuman in the PS Blog post announcing the initiative. “And we’re truly grateful for your participation.”
“That’s why I’m pleased to introduce the Beta Program at PlayStation initiative. It’s an easier, more consolidated way for gamers to sign up to participate in future PlayStation betas across a wide range of PlayStation experiences.”
On the software side of things, Sony has also been working with AMD on Project Amethyst. Through this partnership, both companies are bolstering their AI-based super resolution technologies. While AMD gets access to training data from Sony to help it improve FSR 4, Sony in turn is reaping the benefits from being able to integrate some of these improvements into its own PSSR, which is available on the PS5.
Sony has also been working to make its console more accessible to potential players that may not be able to afford it. In the UK, the company announced a tie-up with rental company Raylo to offer PS5 console rentals. Through the system, users can lease a PS5 consoles starting at £10.99 per month for the slim Digital Edition.
The PlayStation VR2 also got a price cut just last month, bringing it down to $399.99 from its launch price of $549.99. Through this new pricing, Sony is hoping to gain more traction with its VR headset.
PlayStation 5 Update Version 25.02-11.00.00 Changelog:
- We’ve made it simpler to view details about activities.
- Activity details are now fully displayed on cards.
- Potential spoilers will still be hidden.
- Unicode 16.0 emojis are now supported. You can use them in your messages.
- When you set the parental controls’ restriction level to Late Teens or Older, Communication and User-Generated Content will now default to Restrict. If you have previously set the level to Late Teens or Older, your previous settings will not be affected and it will be shown as Customize.
- We’ve improved system software performance and stability.
- We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens.
