PS5: Latest firmware update is rolling out to beta users

Sony has started rolling out its latest PS5 firmware update to beta users.

Members of the System Software Beta Program have started to receive emails, giving them codes to update their firmware to the next test version.

Players signed up to the Beta Program get to try out upcoming firmware updates ahead of their full release, to test that everything works as it should.

While this gives these users access to new features before anyone else, because it’s in beta state it does also come with the risk that something may not work properly, potentially affecting their use of the console.

It appears that this latest update is a relatively minor one, changing the way Activities cards are viewed on the home screen, and adding support for the latest Unicode emojis.

According to a Resetera user who received an email for the beta, the patch notes are as follows:

• 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.

Unicode 16.0 emojis added in the new update include a tired face with bags under its eyes, a fingerprint, a leafless tree, a harp, a shovel, a splatter and a root vegetable.