When Sony opens up beta registration for a PlayStation 4 software update, you can count on it being a big one. Much like the previous reports indicated, firmware 3.0 is the latest patch being readied for the company’s current-gen system, and it’ll herald YouTube broadcasting, the ability to upload clips directly to Twitter and, perhaps most enticing of all, an upgrade to online storage.
Releasing under the codename ‘Kenshin’, firmware 3.0 is the biggest content update for PS4 in some time, and as detailed over on PlayStation Blog, the following features are sure to pique the interest of console owners. Indeed, if you’re a PlayStation Plus member frustrated by the meagre 1GB online storage capacity, you’ll be particularly pleased with the top entry.
Online storage capacity increase — PS4 online storage capacity has increased from 1GB to 10GB for all PS Plus members. In 3.00 system software, you’ll see that we added a handy usage meter to monitor your available storage capacity, and a new Auto-Upload menu has been added to Application Saved Data Management.
YouTube live — PS4 owners will be able to livestream gameplay to YouTube. Livestreams will be viewable across YouTube, including on the new YouTube Gaming mobile app and website.
Events — A new hub for events has been added, giving an overview of activities taking place in the games you play most, as well as official broadcasts. For instance, you may see an update for a Double XP weekend, a special enemy appearing at a scheduled time, or seasonal events like in-game towns being decorated for the winter. You’ll also receive notifications when the event starts, or if the timing changes.
Communities — PS4 users will have the ability to create communities based around shared interests, like games, genres, and more. Communities include a message board with general discussion, screenshots shared by players, and the ability to join parties / games. If you want to tackle a big multiplayer raid, but don’t have enough friends available, this could be a great way to connect with other players who are looking for the same thing.
These are just a handful of the headlining features from the PlayStation 4 patch, with favorite groups, enhanced messaging services and an overhauled What’s New interface also included in firmware 3.0. Bear in mind that the list is subject to change, as Sony will test the budding new features internally before giving the go-ahead. With the beta due to get underway later today, it’s only a matter of time before the company plots a timeline for the patch’s eventual release.
We’ll keep you posted on firmware 3.0 – including a release date – along with all the news pertaining to PlayStation 4 as we learn more.
