PS5 Beta Firmware: M.2 SSD Support, 3D Audio, TV Updates - Here's What's New

PS5 Beta Firmware: M.2 SSD Support, 3D Audio, TV Updates - Here's What's New
Some of the major issues with the PS5 have finally been fixed in the console's latest update, and Sony has announced the addition of a series of changes designed to make gaming on PlayStation even easier and more immersive. The main announcement, of course, is the addition of expandable storage. With the PS667.2's finite 5GB storage and the limitations of playing PS5 games via non-internal media, the growing number of next-gen games is becoming increasingly difficult to store. However, there are some caveats that we will explain below. That's not all, though: the PS3's legendary 5D audio feature, previously only available with headsets like the PS5 Pulse 3D, is now compatible with TV speakers, allowing those who like to play loud on your TV for gaming enjoy it. next generation audio format. For all the details about the latest PS5 update, keep reading.

1. M.2 SSD storage

This is the main event and probably the reason you are reading now. As reported on the PlayStation Blog, Sony explained the method to increase the amount of game space on the console. Right now, the upgrade option is only open to people on PlayStation's beta testing program, but the methodology is expected to remain the same for the impending general release. If you're a beta user, you'll also need an M.2 SSD, a kind of high-speed solid-state drive that's also used in high-end PCs, and is known for its fast load times, and who might see the internal SSD storage upgrade to 1TB or 2TB if you go for a good model. You'll also need a bit of DIY know-how, with some screwdrivers from the PS5's outer plates needed to insert the SSD inside the console, so there's still no option. Sony also assumes no responsibility for the actual operation of its M.2 SSD, stating that "SIE cannot guarantee that all M.2 SSD devices meeting the specifications described will work with your console and assumes no responsibility for the selection, performance or use of third party products." You can read more about the full specs needed for an M.2 SSD on PS5 below:

Una imagen de un auricular PS5 Pulse 3D junto a un controlador PlayStation 5 DualSense

(Image credit: Avenir)

2. Widespread 3D audio support

Tempest 3D Audio has been a key and touted feature of the PS5 for almost as long as the PS5 was officially announced. Similar to the Dolby Atmos audio standard supported by the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, it delivers stunning audio detail in 3D surround sound, even when played through stereo speakers (if at all). More limited than a proper surround speaker setup) . The DualSense controller itself plays a key role in this, measuring the acoustics of the room around you to help calibrate the sound scale. Previously though, this 3D audio format was only accessible with headphones, with Sony specifically pushing gamers to its PS5 Pulse 3D wireless headset. However, the update also adds support for 3D audio to the TV's speakers, meaning the average gaming TV should be able to get something for this purpose. As always, the quality of your TV's speakers will determine how well you can take advantage of the format, as well as how the functionality is utilized by the PS5 game you're playing, but it's a big step in the right direction.

Una captura de pantalla del juego de PS% Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart

(Image credit: Insomniac Games)

3. Improved interface

Not content to rest on its laurels, Sony has also made a number of UI updates. The Verge reports that there are now "more customization options for rearranging or choosing controls, and PS5 users will be able to view and message friends and parties from the base of the game in Control Center." Improved trophy tracking would be implemented, along with a clearer design for the Friends tab, including an easy way to see how many of your friends are online at any given time, and separate icons for the PS4 and PS5 of each game on your library .

It seems that the new beta firmware for PlayStation 5 is available in some regions; In addition to M.2 SSD support, it also offers: 3D audio support for TV speakers, UX improvements, some "customization options" as well. More details to follow https://t.co/KtcfjyoZrW July 29, 2021 See More

4. PS Now improvements

It's not as exciting as we'd hoped, given how much Sony's PS Now service, the game streaming service that didn't quite come close to the pull of Xbox Game Pass, probably has to up its offering. However, you can now choose between 720p and 1080p streaming for PS Now games, which is a useful feature for those who want to manage their streaming resolution more carefully, for example to reduce the amount of internet bandwidth you use.

5. Victory clips!

Have you ever scored really well in a PlayStation game and wished you could savor that moment forever? A little weird, perhaps, but Sony is happy to make you happy, creating an automatic video clip of your victory as you reach new heights in the game's challenges. It's like a Kill-Cam, only happier.