Sony is rolling out a major update for the PS5 today, just over a month after it began testing the changes in a beta program. This update brings several new features and enhancements to the console, including Dolby Atmos support, the ability to mute the bootup beep, the option to use a second controller as an assist controller, expanded storage options for M.2 SSDs, and various UI improvements and navigation changes.
One of the standout additions in this update is the Dolby Atmos support. Sony has implemented its own 3D Audio technology, called Tempest 3D AudioTech, which is compatible with Dolby Atmos devices such as sound bars, TVs, and home theater systems. In addition, media apps like Netflix will soon update their apps on the PS5 to support Dolby Atmos audio. This means that users can enjoy a more immersive and realistic audio experience while gaming or watching movies.
Another notable feature of this update is the ability to mute the PS5 beep sound. This chirping noise usually occurs when the console is turned on or off, or when it goes into rest mode. Now, users have the option to completely mute the beep sound or adjust its volume to their preference.
One of the most useful additions is the ability to use a second DualSense controller as an assist controller. This means that users can assign a second controller to one account and use two controllers to operate the PS5 console. This feature is particularly beneficial for multiplayer games or when helping a friend or family member navigate through a challenging section of a game.
Sony is also expanding its expandable M.2 SSD storage support to an 8TB limit on drives. While users still need an M.2 SSD that meets the minimum requirements specified by Sony, this update provides more options for PS5 owners who require additional storage space.
In terms of UI improvements and navigation changes, users can now enable haptic feedback from the DualSense controller while navigating the PS5 user interface. This means that moving the focus from one section to another will trigger haptic feedback, providing a more tactile and engaging user experience. Additionally, users can now utilize voice commands such as “Hey PlayStation, help” to find support pages and “Hey PlayStation, what’s new?” to discover all the new features in PS5 updates.
The social aspects of the PS5 are also receiving some welcome changes. Users can now invite players into a closed party without adding them to a group, as well as send open or closed party invites to groups instead of just a single friend. Additionally, users can preview someone’s screen share before joining a party, making it easier to decide whether or not to join. The friends tab has also been updated to make it easier to see which friends are in parties. Sony is also introducing emoji reactions for messages, adding a fun and expressive element to communication within the PlayStation ecosystem.
Lastly, PS Remote Play support is being expanded to additional Android TV devices. The PS Remote Play app is now available on Android TV OS 12 devices, including the Chromecast with Google TV (4K) and Sony’s Bravia XR A95L. This means that users can now stream games from a PS5 or PS4 to these Android TV devices, giving them more flexibility and convenience in gaming.
Overall, this PS5 update brings a range of new features and enhancements to further improve the gaming experience on the console. From audio improvements with Dolby Atmos support to expanded storage options and enhanced social features, Sony continues to provide updates that cater to the needs and preferences of its users. Whether it’s enjoying immersive audio, collaborating with others in multiplayer games, or exploring the user interface with haptic feedback, this update adds value and convenience to the PS5 experience.
