SONY has rolled out a major software update worldwide for its new PlayStation 5 console.
There are few details on what the free download changes, but the tech titan has promised a performance boost.
The new firmware, version 20.02-02.26.00, comes one week after Sony’s first ever software update for the PS5.
And it’s a pretty big one at that, weighing in at 868MB. The update is available to download to your console now.
According to Sony’s patch notes, the file “improves system performance”.
It’s possible the company has also addressed some of the bugs that have plagued users since launch day, though Sony has not confirmed this.
HOAR has reached out to Sony for comment to clarify exactly what the download brings.
If you power your PS5 down to Rest Mode (which it does by default), the patch will download automatically.
In Rest Mode, your console powers down but only into a suspended state, allowing it to download games and updates even when you’re not using it.
If you’ve disabled Rest Mode in your settings, however, you’ll need to download the update manually.
You’ll be prompted to do this automatically the next time you switch your console on.
What is the PS5?
The PS5 is Sony’s latest and greatest gaming console.
It’s the successor to the PS4 and PS4 Pro, and is available in two distinct versions.
Those are the pricey PS5 proper with all the bells and whistles, and the digital edition, which is cheaper but with no disc tray.
Both consoles came out in November 2020 with an impressive roster of launch games.
And they’re going head-to-head with Microsoft’s next-gen consoles, the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S.
Like Sony, Microsoft has opted to launch two machines: A full-works console with a higher price tag and a cheaper one without a disc tray.
When did the PS5 launch and how much does it cost?
The PS5 release date landed on November 12 in the US, Japan, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and South Korea.
In the UK, gamers weren’t able to get their hands on it until November 19.
The PS5 proper costs £449.99/$499.99, while the digital edition comes in at $399/£359.
So how does that compare to the PS5’s biggest rival, the Xbox Series X?
Microsoft’s pair of next-gen consoles came out a little earlier and landed on November 10, 2020.
The cheaper disc-free Xbox Series S costs £249/$299, while the Xbox Series X comes in at £449/$499.
In other news, check out our Xbox Series X review.
We also took a look at the Xbox Series S.
And try the powerhouse Dell Alienware R10 gaming PC on for size.
What do you make of the PS5? Let us know in the comments!
