PS5 Firmware Update Enhances User Experience

Sony's latest PlayStation 5 beta update follows the recent URL game session sharing feature, introducing several quality-of-life improvements. This article details the update's key features and beta participation.

Sony Unveils Enhanced PS5 Beta Update: Personalized 3D Audio and More

Key Beta Update Features

Announced on PlayStation.Blog by Sony's VP of Product Management, Hiromi Wakai, the new PS5 beta update, rolling out today, boasts personalized 3D audio profiles, improved Remote Play options, and adaptive controller charging.

A major highlight is the personalized 3D audio profiles for headphones and earbuds. This allows users to fine-tune 3D audio to their hearing, creating a more immersive gaming experience with enhanced spatial awareness. Compatible devices like the Pulse Elite and Pulse Explore allow for sound tests to generate optimal profiles.

[1] Images sourced from PlayStation.Blog The update also refines Remote Play settings, offering increased control over remote access to the PS5. This is particularly helpful for multi-user households, enabling the primary user to restrict remote access to specific individuals. Access is managed via [Settings] > [System] > [Remote Play] > [Enable Remote Play].

For users of the slim PS5 model, adaptive controller charging is introduced. This feature optimizes power consumption by adjusting charging times based on the controller's battery level while the console is in rest mode. Enable this via [Settings] > [System] > [Power Saving] > [Features Available in Rest Mode], selecting [Supply Power to USB Ports] > [Adaptive]. This conserves energy by cutting power after a period of inactivity.

Beta Participation and Global Rollout

Currently, the beta is limited to invited participants in select regions (U.S., Canada, Japan, U.K., Germany, and France). A global release is planned for the coming months. Invited users will receive an email with download instructions. Note that beta features may change or be removed in the final release based on feedback.

Wakai highlighted the importance of community input: "Thanks to feedback from our PlayStation community, we’ve introduced many new features and refinements over the past few years to enhance your gaming experiences on PS5." Sony actively seeks feedback from beta testers.

Building Upon Previous Updates

This beta follows Version 24.05-09.60.00, which introduced URL-based game session invites. Players can share a link via the game session action card, allowing others to join open sessions by scanning a QR code. This new beta further enhances the PS5 experience with improved personalization and control.