Joystiq

Wii U system update 3.0 released, adds automatic background installing and more

Xav de Matos — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST

Nintendo has launched a system software update for the Wii U, adding a new standby function to "download and install software while the system is powered off" and automatic background installation of eShop downloads.

The new software - bringing the Wii U to version 3.0 - also makes system setting changes, which include the ability to "transfer and/or copy between two USB storage devices" and "to select multiple software titles when transferring, copying, or deleting data." The Miiverse channel now supports the Wii Remote, Wii U Pro Controller and the Wii Classic Controller.

The complete list of changes, some of which improve "stability and usability," can be found after the break.

Continue reading Wii U system update 3.0 released, adds automatic background installing and more

Wii U system update 3.0 released, adds automatic background installing and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS3 4.4.1 minor firmware update out today

Sinan Kubba — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 03:30:00 EST

Just a quick heads-up the PS3's rolling out an apparently petite firmware update today. According to Sony, the 4.4.1 update, which we've just downloaded, improves that age-old matter of system stability. We did think our PS3 was looking a bit unhinged this morning.

PS3 4.4.1 minor firmware update out today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Ouya firmware update allows credit card changes

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST

Good news for Ouya Kickstarter backers (and anyone planning to buy a retail unit in June), a new firmware update will let you change your payment options. Previously, credit card information was locked into the associated Ouya account once it was entered. Now, users may change their credit card information at any time under account settings in the Manage menu.

The Ouya recently began shipping to Kickstarter backers as part of a public preview period, and today's update irons out one of the kinks cited in our review of the console's current state.

Ouya firmware update allows credit card changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Wii U Spring System Update coming next week

Jordan Mallory — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST

Nintendo's Wii U will receive its Spring System Update sometime next week, president Satoru Iwata announced during this morning's Nintendo Direct event. The firmware update adds several quality of life improvements to the system, including improved load times when changing between software, or returning to the main Wii U menu. Also included is the Wii U Virtual Console.

Additionally, users will now be able to transfer data between USB drives and install background-downloaded software while playing other games. Installed software also has the ability to automatically download and install updates, without requiring the user to run the software first. Furthermore, the Wii U will now continue to download and install software while the system is powered down. You'll also be able to hold "B" at start-up to boot directly into Wii mode, if you're into that sort of thing.

Wii U Spring System Update coming next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS Vita v2.1 system update cleans up the home screen

David Hinkle — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:50:00 EST

PS Vita owners will find a new firmware update awaiting them tonight, rolling over the system to version 2.1. Chief among changes is the ability to add and drop shortcuts into folders, for obsessed organizers looking to clear the clutter on their home screen. Your customized layout can then be saved to the memory card.

Some videos can be viewed in the browser with v2.1, though a memory card is required for this feature - only certain videos supported. Email has been tweaked too, and PS Plus members can update PlayStation Mobile software and upload game save data automatically to the cloud through 3G. Finally, a new mute feature in v2.1 lets you automatically silence your PS Vita speakers and pause your music when a headset isn't in use.

PS Vita v2.1 system update cleans up the home screen originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS3 4.40 firmware goes live, improves system stability

Sinan Kubba — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST

A PS3 firmware update rolled out this morning, very much out of the blue. It's maybe not surprising, then, the update is apparently minor, at least based on PS Japan's synopsis.

According to that, the 4.40 firmware's main features are improvements to system stability, and updates relating to the Sony RC-S380 card reader device and its compatibility with the PS3. As soon as we have full details on the update, we'll let you know.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

PS3 4.40 firmware goes live, improves system stability originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Wii U system update improves overall stability, big feature update coming in April

Sinan Kubba — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST

The Wii U received another firmware update this week, albeit an apparently minor one ahead of a larger feature update, which Nintendo says is coming in April. This update, for firmware version 2.1.3 U, brings "further improvements to overall system stability."

The larger feature update, which Nintendo previously announced for this spring, will bring Virtual Console support to the console, launching with a selection of NES and SNES games.

Wii U system update improves overall stability, big feature update coming in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Wii U update available now, improves 'system stability'

JC Fletcher — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 21:45:00 EST

Relive the thrill of Wii U's day one firmware update today! A new firmware update is available now. "Further improvements to overall system stability and other minor adjustments have been made to enhance the user experience," Nintendo notes.

Start downloading it now. "The new system update may take an extended amount of time to download," Nintendo says on its support site. "Depending on the speed of the Internet connection used, it could take an hour or more to download and install, even if you have already downloaded the previous update. Please be patient." We're looking at about 1:56 on our progress bar.

Remember: don't unplug your Wii U while this is happening!

Wii U update available now, improves 'system stability' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Vita 2.01 firmware is live, fixes automatic syncs of PS Plus saves

Sinan Kubba — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:30:00 EST

The 2.01 firmware for PlayStation Vita went live this morning, correcting an error with syncing of PS Plus game saves. According to Sony, 2.01 fixes issues that prevented players from automatically syncing saves of their PS Plus games with cloud storage.

Sony introduced PS Plus to Vita with last month's 2.00 firmware update. The Vita games currently available via the North American service are Uncharted: Golden Abyss, Jet Set Radio, Wipeout 2048, Gravity Rush, and Tales From Space: Mutant Blobs Attack!, as well as Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions from the PSP library.

Vita 2.01 firmware is live, fixes automatic syncs of PS Plus saves originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Report: Wii U dies if power cut during massive firmware update

Jessica Conditt — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST

We'll get this out of the way first: Do not unplug or turn off any console when it is performing a firmware update.

Unplugging the Wii U during the day-one firmware update might brick the console for good, LA Times film and video game industry journalist Ben Fritz reports on Twitter. Fritz says he unplugged his Wii U 15 minutes into the update, when the progress bar said it would take two hours to finish, and his console is now completely busted. There was no "cancel" option, Fritz says.

A few people on Twitter have chimed in with their own update horror stories, with one saying the connection timed out during the update and another claiming Nintendo support told him to unplug the Wii U for 15 seconds, both scenarios ending with bricks. The Wii U's sizable update will take a while to process, of course expanding the chances of something going wrong. Nintendo has not confirmed the update's actual size.

Nintendo of America warns Wii U owners, "please do not power down or unplug your system while downloading updates. Doing so may cause damage to your Wii U."

In the spirit of Fritz's Twitter avatar, remember: If you unplug your Wii U during a firmware update, you're gonna have a bad time.

Report: Wii U dies if power cut during massive firmware update originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Vita firmware 2.00 makes web browser faster, usable in-game

Sinan Kubba — Mon, 19 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST

Today's Vita firmware update is giving the system's web browser a speed boost, as well as making it usable in-game. We knew the browser's due enhancements in the 2.00 update, but Sony Worldwide Studios boss Shuhei Yoshida shed further light on Twitter today.

The browser becomes a "small app," said Yoshida, meaning it can be used without quitting a game. That's vital for when you're stuck and need a walkthrough, not that we ever have of course, cough splutter. Yoshida also noted browsing is faster in 2.00 firmware.

The biggest deal with 2.00 is the introduction of PlayStation Plus for Vita. The first batch of Instant Game Collection freebies arrives tomorrow, with six Vita games added including the likes of Uncharted: Golden Abyss, Jet Set Radio, Wipeout 2048, and Gravity Rush.

Vita firmware 2.00 makes web browser faster, usable in-game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Vita firmware 2.00 includes new email app, wireless content transfer

JC Fletcher — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST

November 19 doesn't just mark the arrival of PlayStation Plus - and Gravity Rush at no additional price - to the PlayStation Vita. It also means software update 2.00, which includes much more exciting content than the usual, ever-present Sony software updates.

A new email app supports Gmail, Yahoo, and other unspecified email providers. You can now connect wirelessly to a PC to transfer Vita content (finally!). The browser and video apps have been updated as well, to enable playback of 1080p videos (but not in 1080p), tweeting of URLs from within the browser, and improved website display. Check out all the new additions in this video.

Vita firmware 2.00 includes new email app, wireless content transfer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumor: PS3 hacked yet again, this time it might be for keeps

Jessica Conditt — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 21:15:00 EST

Yesterday a new, PSN-enabled custom firmware for hacked PlayStation 3 consoles launched, compatible with the official firmware 4.25 release. This type of hack isn't new, and previously Sony has been able to update its firmware to sufficiently quell the hackers' reach. Following the custom firmware launch yesterday, however, was the release of the PlayStation 3's LV0 keys.

In theory, the LV0 decryption keys make is easy to decode any system update to the PlayStation 3, Eurogamer writes. The LV0 keys allow PS3 firmware to be decrypted on PC, and then re-encrypted with firmware 3.55 keys to run on hacked consoles.

A group called "The Three Muskateers" takes responsibility for the LV0 keys, but not the leak itself. That's all thanks to a new Chinese hacking group, "BlueDiskCFW," who planned to release and charge for custom firmware updates using The Three Muskateers' LV0 keys. To stop BlueDiskCFW from profiting off the keys, the Muskateers released them.

"You can be sure that if it wouldn't have been for this leak, this key would never have seen the light of day," The Three Muskateers write in a statement. "Only the fear of our work being used by others to make money out of it has forced us to release this now."

Read the complete statement from The Three Muskateers, with the keys edited out, below.

Continue reading Rumor: PS3 hacked yet again, this time it might be for keeps

Rumor: PS3 hacked yet again, this time it might be for keeps originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS3 4.30 update brings Vita Trophies, folds Folding@Home

Richard Mitchell — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST

Sony will be rolling out a new PlayStation 3 firmware update tomorrow, October 23. Update 4.30 only brings a couple of changes. First, the Trophies section (for some reason) is moving from the games section of the XMB to the PSN section. Furthermore, Trophies earned on your PlayStation Vita will now also be displayed on the PS3.

Finally, Sony is retiring the Life with PlayStation service and, along with it, Folding@home. The Folding@home project, for those who don't recall, utilizes the idle processing power of personal computers and PlayStation 3 consoles to help further Stanford University disease research. Vijay Pande, Stanford's Folding@home research lead tells PlayStation Blog that the PS3 "was a game changer for Folding@home." The project, and by extension the contribution of PS3 users, has helped pave the way to "a new strategy to fight Alzheimer's disease" and potentially a viable drug.

Those who wish to continue (or begin) supporting Folding@home may still do so via Windows, Mac or Linux.

PS3 4.30 update brings Vita Trophies, folds Folding@Home originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Vita firmware 1.8 to add PSOne Classics support

JC Fletcher — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST

The next Vita firmware update will add the PSOne Classics support originally announced during E3. There's no exact date for version 1.8, but it's due sometime this summer.

The update won't simply enable all PSOne Classics; according to Sony representatives, support for PSOne games will be rolled out a few at a time following the new firmware. The good news is you'll just have to buy (or have already bought) each supported game once for use on PS3, PSP, or Vita.

Vita firmware 1.8 to add PSOne Classics support originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

3DS firmware update on April 25 makes it easier to organize Home menu

David Hinkle — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 23:41:00 EST

During the Nintendo Direct conference livestream, Satoru Iwata revealed a new firmware update is inbound. Apparently folks have been complaining of clutter, so the new update is aimed at cleaning up your Home screen. Users will be able to create folders, name them and store up to 60 items within.

Update: The Nintendo of America Twitter account pegs the update for April 25.

3DS firmware update on April 25 makes it easier to organize Home menu originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 23:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS Vita 1.66 update now live, reportedly with a fix for PS Minis support

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST

Due to a "technical fault" with PlayStation Vita firmware 1.65 (released yesterday), the update was "taken down temporarily" and later replaced with a newer version (1.66). More exciting than the hullabaloo surrounding its release: firmware 1.66 reportedly enables PlayStation Minis support for PlayStation Plus users on the Vita. Moreover, some users are saying that if you want to snag older free Minis that you got with your subscription, you're able to delete the non-functioning existing version and replace it with a fresh download.

We've dropped Sony's list of updates in the firmware just below the break, should you wish to learn more about its less-than-thrilling specifics. Sony doesn't note the Minis fix, but we've followed up for clarity's sake.

Continue reading PS Vita 1.66 update now live, reportedly with a fix for PS Minis support

PS Vita 1.66 update now live, reportedly with a fix for PS Minis support originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS Vita software update 1.65 adjusts sleep timer

David Hinkle — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 22:15:00 EST

If you've been troubled by your Vita going into sleep mode prematurely while you wait to connect with opponents in Wipeout 2048, listen up. Firmware version 1.65 -- to be released "soon" adds a new option to the Power Saver settings tab, extending the time before the PS Vita goes into sleep mode to 10 minutes.

In addition to the new Power Saver option, a notification alert will be added to the settings area, allowing users to toggle notifications on and off. Oh, and CAPS LOCK is being added to the on-screen keyboard for those times when telling somebody gg kthxbye just doesn't properly convey your appreciation and enthusiasm.

The last addition is an arrow icon that will be displayed when your PS Vita "finds new activities in the LiveArea."

PS Vita software update 1.65 adjusts sleep timer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS Vita 1.61 adds Maps app, video recording, and other updates

Mike Schramm — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:30:00 EST

The PS Vita has a system update lined up for tonight, preceding Wednesday's mainstream launch. Early adopters can update their systems to firmware version 1.61, which adds a Maps application to the home screen, allows for video recording in the Photos application, and allows for any ratings you make in the PlayStation Store to appear on Facebook. Additionally, the Discoveries screen now lists up to 100 players, as well as the number of times they've been seen.

The Content Manager Assistant app has been updated, and is available now both as a Windows and Mac download. Even if you've got version 1.60 already, you should make the jump to 1.61, as Sony says there are some systemwide performance improvements too. The latest firmware can be downloaded on the console over Wi-Fi, or can be updated from a PC or Mac with the Content Manager Assistant.

PS Vita 1.61 adds Maps app, video recording, and other updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PSA: 3DS firmware update is live

JC Fletcher — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:15:00 EST

I just updated my 3DS, and other users are reporting that they've been asked to do so as well. This is the delayed "November update" meant to add DLC capabilities, 3D video recording, and more.

Looking around my system, I see a new "Nintendo Zone" app for interfacing with "participating locations," to receive special content from certain free wi-fi hotspots. The "3DS Camera" app now has a toggle for video or stills, and -- most unexpected of all -- there are new "accomplishments" (achievements, kind of) in the StreetPass Mii Plaza. A few popped up immediately upon starting the app (above). You can see them all in a list within the Mii Plaza. I have 20 total (!) relating to the number and location of the people I've met.

Other new stuff in the StreetPass Mii Plaza includes a music player for Mii Plaza music, new Find Mii stuff (Find Mii 2 game and lots of new hats, accessible only to those who have all the hats from the first game), new Puzzle Swap puzzles, and even some kind of new SpotPass connectivity, to bring Miis into your Plaza from the internet. I'm not sure how this works yet.

Though the eShop was down all day in preparation for this update, I didn't see anything new there yet -- except for a news item about the 3D video update.

PSA: 3DS firmware update is live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

3DS firmware update delayed, will be available 'by December 8'

JC Fletcher — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:35:00 EST

You may have been getting apprehensive that Nintendo wouldn't deliver the 'November update' for the 3DS's firmware on time. You would have been right to worry! In a brief message on the official site, Nintendo said that the firmware is "in the final stages of internal testing" and is now scheduled for release by December 8.

The update, when released, will add 3D video recording functionality, new StreetPass games, the 3DS-to-3DS system transfer service, DLC infrastructure, and more.

3DS firmware update delayed, will be available 'by December 8' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

US copies of Super Mario 3D Land also include firmware update

JC Fletcher — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:35:00 EST

Yesterday, we found out that the Japanese version of Super Mario 3D Land packed a mandatory 3DS firmware update, which enhanced security (of course) but also streamlined the friends list, adding a new "Join Game" option.

Today, upon the arrival of our US review copy, we discovered that the same firmware update is loaded on that version, as well, and offers the same amenities. You can see the "Join Game" button at the top of the screenshot above. It's faded out because the game I had running at the time doesn't have multiplayer.

There's more 3DS updating to come, as a more comprehensive update is due this month to add video recording features, along with updated StreetPass games, DLC functionality, and other eShop improvements.

US copies of Super Mario 3D Land also include firmware update originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Super Mario 3D Land comes with new 3DS firmware

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:34:00 EST

Japanese Super Mario 3D Land carts have started dropping into 3DS slots, and early reports from the country indicate that the game comes packed with brand new firmware for the system. What does the firmware update do, you wonder? Apparently, it makes the portable's friends list a bit more functional -- a button will now allow you to join a friend's game in progress. It seems that the update isn't an early release of the upcoming November one, which brings a variety of features.

The firmware update also adds a modification to the console's ability to play flashcarts, a notorious game piracy culprit on portable consoles. Like most game-based firmware updates, the cart requires the update before allowing the user to access Super Mario 3D Land, so, uh, resistance is kinda futile. It's unclear whether the same firmware update will be present on US and EU carts when the game ships in the coming weeks, but we've asked Nintendo for clarification and will update the story if we hear back.

Super Mario 3D Land comes with new 3DS firmware originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

3D video recording, other features in November firmware update

Justin McElroy — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:24:00 EST

Nintendo very rudely held a 3DS press conference while we were all asleep, but luckily our friends at Andriasang were liveblogging the whole thing for us. The topic was the 3DS November firmware update and here are the highlights:

3D video recording (a feature first touted back in March) will be enabled. You'll have plenty of options to tweak your clips (which can be up to 10 minutes long), including enabling stop-motion animation.
There's a map overlay to show where Miis you've collected in StreetPass are from.
You'll be able to transfer software to other 3DS systems.
The 3DS RPG Find Mii will get a sequel, available only if you've cleared the first iteration.

Keep in mind, of course, that these are the details from the Japanese conference and not necessarily what we can expect stateside. In fact, in the U.S. version of this same briefing, the only one of the above features Reggie Fils-Amie mentions specifically is 3D video.

3D video recording, other features in November firmware update originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Hulu Plus coming to 3DS and Wii 'soon'

Christopher Grant — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:15:00 EST

Subscription streaming TV service Hulu Plus is coming to both the 3DS and Wii, sometime "soon," Nintendo says. While you may be inclined to make any number of "dust off my Wii" gags, we should probably remind you that when it comes to Netflix streaming, the Wii is actually the most popular device. In fact, that same survey pegged the Wii as the most popular Hulu streaming box, even though it wasn't yet available; thanks, margin of error!

The only other piece of information we can share with you is the price; as with Xbox 360 and PS3, Hulu Plus will run you $7.99/month in exchange for "thousands of TV episodes - including the entire current season of popular shows like Modern Family, Glee, Dancing with the Stars, The Biggest Loser, House and Grey's Anatomy." If you're thinking about cutting the cable TV cord, you could do worse.

Hulu Plus coming to 3DS and Wii 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nintendo holding conference on Friday about 3DS firmware, Mario Kart 7

JC Fletcher — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 13:45:00 EST

Nintendo is springing another press event on us, this Friday, October 21 at 8PM (7AM EDT). The pre-recorded presentation will be streamed online, and will focus on the upcoming November firmware update for 3DS, along with details about Mario Kart 7's wireless functions (probably referring to online play).

Those two things alone don't seem like much for a press conference, so either this thing will be mercifully brief or there will be some surprises. There might be more to this firmware update than video recording. Maybe.

[Thanks, Dali!]

Nintendo holding conference on Friday about 3DS firmware, Mario Kart 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS3 firmware 3.7 brings auto cloud saves and Trophy sync (for PS Plus members)

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:15:00 EST

An upcoming PS3 firmware update will enable automatic syncing of Trophies to a player's online profile. Before everyone gets too excited, know that the feature is reserved exclusively to PlayStation Plus members. Another PlayStation Plus bonus: automatic online game saves will now be enabled. Upon first playing a game, players will be asked whether or not to enable automatic online saves for that specific title (otherwise, they can enable it from the XMB later).

In the category of "everyone else," the update will add a new recommendation feature that will allow users to recommend specific PlayStation Store content to friends. A new "TV/Video Services" section will also be added to the XMB. The new category will house online video services like Hulu and Netflix. Videos purchased from the PlayStation Store, however, will still be found in the same "Video" section of the XMB.

A handful of updates are also being added to allow for expanded capabilities when watching 3D Blu-ray movies as well.

Firmware 3.7 is scheduled to launch "soon," so stay tuned.

PS3 firmware 3.7 brings auto cloud saves and Trophy sync (for PS Plus members) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PSA: PS3 firmware 3.66 incoming

Randy Nelson — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:40:00 EST

We hope you're ready for improved system stability "during use of PS3 format software and network services," because that's what the just-announced PS3 firmware 3.66 is bringing -- and evidently nothing else of note -- likely any time now. PSN director Eric Lempel writes on the PlayStation Blog that this is a "minor update," though based on Sony's servers and your connection speed, it could be a less-than-minor interruption in your ability to play online.

PSA: PS3 firmware 3.66 incoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

PSA: 3DS firmware update fixes Ridge Racer 3D issue

JC Fletcher — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:20:00 EST

Nintendo released its second 3DS firmware update in as many weeks yesterday, which will be welcome news to those of you who have tried and failed to play Ridge Racer 3D recently. Version 2.1.0-3U of the 3DS system software includes "a correction for the screen freeze symptom" found in that game. That takes care of those crashes; the ones that happen around tight corners are on you.

The new update also enables automatic download of future updates when wireless internet is available. This is either convenient or terrifying, depending on whether you're trying to work on homebrew 3DS software right now!

PSA: 3DS firmware update fixes Ridge Racer 3D issue originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

3DS eShop update delayed to June 7 in Japan [update: June 6 in North America]

JC Fletcher — Thu, 12 May 2011 00:50:00 EST

The 3DS firmware update adding the eShop, DSiWare transfer, web browser, and other features, was originally scheduled to be released in "late May." A note on Nintendo of Japan's website reveals that it's going to be released so late in May that it'll actually be June by the time it arrives.

June 7 is now the official date for the firmware update, in Japan at least. That happens to coincide with Nintendo's E3 presentation, so we're now expecting that to be the worldwide release date, so Nintendo can make a dramatic reveal on stage. We're checking with Nintendo, in any case.

Update: The update will come to North America "the evening of June 6 Pacific time," according to Nintendo's website. Thanks to Donald for spotting that.

[Thanks, Manuel!]

3DS eShop update delayed to June 7 in Japan [update: June 6 in North America] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 May 2011 00:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Sony: New PS3 firmware to accompany PSN relaunch, network being physically rebuilt

Randy Nelson — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 20:47:00 EST

Sony has posted an updated PSN outage FAQ on the PlayStation Blog, and while some information it contains seems to reiterate things we already know -- "some services" will return within a week, you should monitor your credit card(s) -- new details have been brought to light.

First off, Sony is "working on a new system software update that will require all users to change their password once PlayStation Network is restored." It's also been confirmed that PSN is being physically rebuilt as a result of last week's intrusion. SCEA PR director Patrick Seybold states in the FAQ that the company is "moving our network infrastructure and data center to a new, more secure location, which is already underway."

Also revealed: While "the entire credit card table was encrypted" and there remains "no evidence that credit card data was taken," PSN's personal data table "was not encrypted, but was, of course, behind a very sophisticated security system." Not sophisticated enough, apparently.

Sony: New PS3 firmware to accompany PSN relaunch, network being physically rebuilt originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 20:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

First PS3 'custom firmware' working, doesn't allow piracy

James Ransom-Wiley — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:20:00 EST

Building upon the exploits of the fail0verflow hacking troupe, a tinkerer known as "KaKaRoToKS" has got the first "custom firmware" (CFW) running on PS3. The modification can be applied to any version of the system's official firmware, including the latest 3.55 patch, and simply adds an "Install Package Files" option in the Game section of the XMB.

Importantly, this unauthorized option isn't an open flood gate for pirated games, but rather a means by which users could install signed and encrypted executable files -- in other words, "retail" .pkg files like the ones Sony uses for PSN downloads. While no current homebrew application is packaged like this (and therefore compatible with the custom firmware), it would be possible for homebrew developers to re-package their files to be installed through the CFW. (PSJailbreak offers similar functionality, DigitalFoundry explains, but as its name implies, Jailbreak allows for the installation of unsigned, unencrypted code.)

"Since the kernel is left unmodified, this means that this custom firmware is really meant for future homebrew installation, and it will not allow piracy," writes KaKaRoToKS in a blog post about the CFW. "I plan on keeping it that way."

[Thanks, Roland]

First PS3 'custom firmware' working, doesn't allow piracy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Microsoft shoots down Kinect improvement rumors

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST

We couldn't have been more excited at the though of Kinect recognizing even more of our moving parts, but it appears that rumors of a Kinect update said to improve the camera's resolution and observatory fidelity were incorrect. "We're constantly working to expand and improve on experiences for Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE" an Xbox rep told CVG. "However, this rumour is completely unsubstantiated."

So, while Microsoft will (of course) continue supporting the peripheral in many ways, an update that would specifically improve the accuracy of Kinect's sensor doesn't appear to be in the cards. We'll have to keep looking to unofficial hacks for new Kinect functionality -- at least for now.

Microsoft shoots down Kinect improvement rumors originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Kinect update could greatly improve performance, report suggests

Andrew Yoon — Sun, 19 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST

What if Kinect could track individual fingers? What if it could see not only the position of your hand, but its rotation as well? According to a report by Eurogamer, more advanced tracking from the Kinect is possible -- but only through a firmware update which its sources say is coming.

The Kinect sensor would be able to transfer up to 35MB/s of data, but is currently locked to about 15MB/s. The artificial limit is imposed by the fact that multiple USB devices may be connected to the console. However, Microsoft engineers are supposedly working on a fix that will allow a greater amount of data to be transferred from the Kinect, upgrading the 320x240 image it currently uses to a 640x480 one -- an effective fourfold increase in pixels.

Digital Foundry's Rich Leadbetter's said that a firmware-based solution is "doable," but admitted that there will be additional caveats for Microsoft to address. "It is uncertain just how accurate the camera's sensor is," even when operating at a higher resolution. "Additionally, processing four times as many depth pixels could slow things down more."

Kinect update could greatly improve performance, report suggests originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Dec 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nintendo 'looking into' SpotPass for automatic 3DS firmware updates

JC Fletcher — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

During an investor Q&A (translated by Andriasang), Nintendo president Satoru Iwata outlined a potential method of keeping the 3DS from becoming as beset by piracy as the DS platform -- and it uses one of the new 3DS features. Iwata told investors that "As part of the functionality of SpotPass, we're looking into having automatic system updates via the internet." That means that the 3DS would be able to download firmware updates automatically whenever in contact with a WiFi signal, a functionality that Iwata also wants to use to add new features.

Iwata also said that Nintendo expected to keep game prices around the same price point as current DS releases. "We don't believe that the world is in a state where high priced software will sell well, so we don't believe it will be in a price range too far off from current DS software." And then Square Enix games will be ten dollars higher than that range.

Nintendo 'looking into' SpotPass for automatic 3DS firmware updates originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

DSi firmware 1.4.1U update blocks certain flash carts

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Nintendo has released a new firmware update for the DSi -- the first update in over a year. The update does not add any new functionality to the device, but instead provides "behind-the-scenes improvements to system performance." Translation: Several DSi flash cartridges, which enable the use of homebrew or pirated software, have been blocked.

According to GBAtemp.net, the affected carts include (but aren't necessarily limited to) the Acekard 2i, Supercard DSTwo, M3i Zero, iPlayer and DSTTi. A handful of carts are reportedly unaffected by the update, including the EZ-Flash Vi, iSmart DS and Hyper R4i.

And thus the cycle begins anew, with hackers diligently hacking away at Nintendo's new anti-piracy efforts (which didn't take too long last time). Joystiq does not condone piracy, but flash cartridges also have plenty of legal, entertaining uses. For example, did you know the DS makes a handy SCUMM emulator?

DSi firmware 1.4.1U update blocks certain flash carts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Wii Menu 4.3 brings performance upgrades, removes homebrew

JC Fletcher — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

Over the last day or so, a message has gradually disseminated through North America's Wii systems, alerting users to a new Wii Menu update (we personally received it at around 1AM EST). Wii Menu 4.3 doesn't add any neat features to the user experience; rather, it seems focused entirely on taking features away from swarthy pirates and unlucky homebrewers.

"Because unauthorized channels or firmware may impair game play or the Wii console, updating to Wii Menu version 4.3 will check for and automatically remove such unauthorized files," Nintendo says on its support site, repeating a message found in every firmware update . "In addition, there are some behind the scenes enhancements that do not affect any prominently-used features or menus but will improve system performance."

Improved system performance is always a good thing, of course, but the text makes it sound like this is secondary to the main goal of taking another pass at everyone's Wiis to search for unauthorized software.

Wii Menu 4.3 brings performance upgrades, removes homebrew originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Air Force disappointed by PS3's Other OS removal

Justin McElroy — Wed, 12 May 2010 11:25:00 EST

[Image credit: Air Force]

It seems we'll all have to be a little more careful before we mock PS3 owners that have voiced concern over Sony's decision to remove the "Install Other OS" option from the console (via a recent firmware update). "What nerdlinger would be so bent out of shape about that?" you might wonder aloud. As we've just learned from Ars Technica, that nerdlinger happens to be the United States Air Force.

The military branch uses a network of around 2,000 PlayStation 3 units running Linux for research, a structure which proved to be more affordable thanks to Sony's hardware subsidy. The setup isn't in any immediate trouble, as the consoles aren't hooked up to PSN and don't need to be updated, but when the units die out it will be difficult -- if not impossible -- to replace them. Considering they just constructed the rig a few months ago, the Air Force has expressed disappointment. And as you'll read in the Ars story, Uncle Sam isn't alone in his frustration.

Oh, and sorry about the lack of Top Gun references in this post, but that's actually a movie about the Navy. We know, we were disappointed too.

Air Force disappointed by PS3's Other OS removal originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 May 2010 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

PS3 Dragon Age players report crashing with Firmware 3.30

JC Fletcher — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 15:32:00 EST

What's the next feature to be removed from the PS3 through a firmware update? According to some posters on the Bioware forums, it's the ability to play Dragon Age: Origins. Several users have reported frequent crashes or freezes while playing the RPG after installing PS3 Firmware 3.30. "The game has crashed like 7 times in an hour just after the update," complained forum poster "scorpgul." Another poster, "eugeni_dodonov," reported that "it never ever froze before, but since 3.30 it is freezing like every 15 minutes." Players claim to be experiencing the issue on both original and "slim" PS3 models in the US and Europe.

On Friday, online producer Fernando Melo indicated that BioWare was working with Sony to correct the issue, which he called "a bit out of the blue for us." We suppose your Warden could use a couple days off anyway.

PS3 Dragon Age players report crashing with Firmware 3.30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Linux support dropped from PS3 Firmware 3.21

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:22:00 EST

It's rare for a company to announce a firmware update that removes functionality from a product, but that's exactly what Sony is doing with the upcoming release of PS3 firmware update 3.21 on April 1st. The rarely utilized, but nonetheless useful, ability to install another operating system (Linux) on the PS3 will be removed in the upcoming system software revision, a feature that was already removed in the PS3 Slim. SCEA's Patrick Seybold explains that the removal of said functionality is necessary "due to security concerns ... [and] will help ensure that PS3 owners will continue to have access to the broad range of gaming and entertainment content from SCE and its content partners on a more secure system."

This move may be a response to recent claims that the PS3 has been "hacked." The language used in Seybold's post reminds us of another Sony platform that's been plagued by rampant piracy: the PSP. While the move seems to be a preventative measure on Sony's part, the early response to the removal of Linux support has been passionately negative. Undoubtedly, there will be few that will be genuinely inconvenienced by this decision. However, the rest of us have good reason for some dread: who can look forward to the prospect of downloading and installing a firmware update that offers no added functionality?

[Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

Linux support dropped from PS3 Firmware 3.21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 00:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments