Sony Testing New PS5 Firmware Update

Sony has seemingly begun testing a new PlayStation 5 firmware update as numerous users enrolled in the beta program receive emails with details on the latest system software patch. The company has yet to make an official announcement regarding the latest PlayStation 5 firmware update, but it looks like a handful of new improvements and features will be rolled out in the near future.

The last major firmware update for the PlayStation 5 was rolled out in December and introduced the much-loved 30th Anniversary themes to the console. While the special PlayStation 1 startup screen and themes have since been removed from the PS5, Sony has confirmed that due to the unwavering support from users, it will be bringing the features back permanently at a later date. While PlayStation did confirm that these specific themes will be returning “in the months ahead,” fans were left disappointed as the company simultaneously revealed that is has no current plans to create any additional themes, something players have been requesting ever since the console was released.

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Sony Begins Testing New PS5 Firmware Update

According to users on ResetEra (and spotted by Push Square), Sony is now testing a new firmware update for the PlayStation 5. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like there are any significant changes making their way to the console with the latest update. While Sony has made no official announcement, players are reporting receiving emails that state the new beta update will make it simpler to view details about activities, add support for Unicode 16.0 emojis, improve system software performance and stability, make updates to the parental controls’ restriction level, and improve the messages and usability on some screens. Sadly, there has yet to be any confirmation on when this update will be released for all users.

While the PlayStation 5 continues to receive new firmware updates on a regular basis, reports have been circulating that Sony intends to release the PS6 in late 2027. This would mean the next generation of consoles is now less than three years away if the report is to be believed. The information comes from a user who correctly leaked numerous details about the PlayStation 5 Pro. They now claim that PlayStation’s next console is “design-complete” and is currently in the “pre-si[licon] validation” phase. Although the source for this rumor has been correct in the past, there is always the possibility of internal delays that could push the console into 2028.

But for those still looking to make the most of their PlayStation 5, Sony recently launched a new Midnight Black lineup of PS5 accessories. The DualSense Edge wireless controller, PlayStation Portal, Pulse Explore wireless earbuds, and Pulse Elite wireless headset are now all available to purchase in stunning Midnight Black. The new Midnight Black collection officially launched on February 20 and can be purchased from PlayStation Direct.

PlayStation 5 Beta Firmware Update Patch Notes for February 2025

Main updates from this System Software Beta Program:

• 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 Customise.
• We’ve improved system software performance and stability.
• We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens.