Sony released the PlayStation 5 system software update for September 2023, which includes additional accessibility and audio improvements. The most recent patch also broadens the range of high-end SSDs that can be inserted in the PlayStation 5.
This release was preceded by a PlayStation 5 beta upgrade that was released in July. Among other things, that package introduced support for larger-capacity SSDs and the option to use two DualSense controllers as a unified source of input for accessibility purposes. Both of those improvements have finally made their way into the current stable version of the PlayStation 5 operating system, after six weeks of testing.
The September 2023 update, in particular, allows consumers to enhance their PlayStation 5 storage space with an M.2 SSD by a maximum of 8TB, up from the initial 4TB. Because the console ships with 825GB of non-volatile memory, the potential to tenfold the capacity should make it more future-proof. However, doing so is now prohibitively expensive, as 8TB M.2 SSDs cost around $1,000, which is roughly twice the price of a standard PlayStation 5.
The latest PlayStation 5 system update also improves social functionality, allowing users to invite friends to a private party without joining a new group or adding them to an existing one.
Following the latest patch, open and closed party invitations can now be aimed at groups rather than simply individuals. The PlayStation 5 party UI has also been updated, as evidenced by the addition of Share Screen previews, which appear next to the highlighted names of joinable pals even before the player joins with them. In terms of social gatherings, the Friends tab now explicitly designates online friends who are participating in an activity that can be joined.
More detailed Game Help cards are also included, allowing players to see their completed, available, in-progress, and impending activities. Meanwhile, the settings menu has been updated to include a detailed Discover Tips section as well as the option to muffle the PlayStation 5 beep sound. Users in the United States and the United Kingdom now have access to enhanced voice command options, such as the ability to ask for “help” or “what’s new” after awakening the system with a “hey, PlayStation” phrase.
Finally, PS Remote Play compatibility for select Android TV devices is added in the September 2023 release. The expansion is limited to the 4K Chromecast with Google TV and Sony’s flagship OLED screen, the Bravia XR A95L. Following this patch, the gaming behemoth plans to release another complete upgrade to the PS App for Android and iOS before the end of September.
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