Joystiq

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.

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3DS firmware update adds save transfers, streamlines 'download later'

JC Fletcher — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST

The next time you open up the 3DS eShop, you'll be prompted to update your system hardware, to version 5.0.0-11U. While not a drastic change in the 3DS user experience, this firmware does offer a few tweaks that sound useful.

For example, you won't have to exit the eShop anymore for "Download Later" to work. Just close the 3DS and downloading begins. You can also download game updates in the background. The update also makes the save data transfer tool available, so you can move save data from a packaged version of a game to the eShop version (but not back!) The firmware also makes unnamed "further improvements to overall system stability and other minor adjustments."

Apparently, however, Japanese users have been experiencing trouble with the firmware update. We're checking with Nintendo of America to see if the same error messages are in danger of occurring here.

Update: Nintendo of America acknowledged the issue. If an error message prevents you from updating, turn the 3DS off, then turn it back on, while holding the L, R, A, and Up buttons.

3DS firmware update adds save transfers, streamlines 'download later' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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PSA: PS3 firmware update is live, Plus cloud storage increased

JC Fletcher — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 11:15:00 EST

The new PS3 firmware update designed to support increased PlayStation Plus cloud storage is now live in North America. Most PlayStation Plus users will find that their systems have already downloaded the file this morning, though it will still need to be installed.

Non-Plus users don't have the automatic download feature, but still have to install a system update that doesn't do anything for them. Sorry!

PSA: PS3 firmware update is live, Plus cloud storage increased originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Sep 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation Plus cloud storage increase coming with PS3 update 4.25

David Hinkle — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 20:30:00 EST

About a month ago at Gamescom, Sony announced its PlayStation Plus service would arrive on the PS Vita and that the storage limit for the cloud would be increased. While we're still waiting on a date for PS Plus on PS Vita, the PlayStation Blog says the cloud storage expansion is coming with the next PS3 firmware update, version 4.25.

The cloud storage cap for saved game data currently has a ceiling of 150MB. Sony says v4.25 will be available "soon," though no specifics beyond that have been given. We've contacted Sony to try and get a better idea of when we should expect the firmware update.

PlayStation Plus cloud storage increase coming with PS3 update 4.25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vita firmware 1.80 adds actual button controls to home screen

JC Fletcher — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST

PSOne Classics support comes to Vita on August 28. Along with it, Vita firmware 1.80 adds several new features to the platform - like actually using the Vita's buttons on the handheld's menu. We know!

The new firmware also adds fast rewind, fast-forward, and variable speed to the Video application. If you're using the thing to play music, you can now import playlists from PS3 or iTunes. The web browser supports rear touch for scroll and zoom, which actually seems like a worthwhile use of that rear touchpad. And there will be a new "Cross-Controller" icon in the Remote Play app to round up Cross-Controller supporting games.

That's the most noticable stuff: there's a whole list of tweaks at the PlayStation Blog.

Continue reading Vita firmware 1.80 adds actual button controls to home screen

Vita firmware 1.80 adds actual button controls to home screen originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSA: PS3 firmware update 4.20 drops tomorrow

David Hinkle — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST

The last firmware update for the PS3, version 4.10, added an audio option allowing players to hear their own voice echoed through the new Wireless Stereo Headset peripheral. Since implementing the feature, Sony has heard some complaints; this new firmware update, version 4.20, will add new audio options.

If you're using a Wireless Stereo Headset, you will be able to either turn the functionality completely off, or you can select from one of five different levels of intensity, the PlayStation Blog says. Sony will also add an option for virtual surround sound when using the Wireless Stereo Headset to watch Blu-ray or DVD movies when the update drops tomorrow.

Other non-audio additions include more flexibility when setting how long before the system will shut itself down, and an the option to manage save files in bulk.

PSA: PS3 firmware update 4.20 drops tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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PSA: Vita Facebook app updated to 1.01, adds photo uploading

Jordan Mallory — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST

The Facebook app for Sony's Vita handheld has been updated from version 1.0 to version 1.01, adding the ability to use Pages, upload photos and tag said photos once they've been uploaded. It also adds full support for the Vita's system languages, although it doesn't look like this firmare update includes the "Pirate" language setting available in the browser version of Facebook.

Here's hoping that'll be part of the next infinitesimally small incremental firmware update.

PSA: Vita Facebook app updated to 1.01, adds photo uploading originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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PS3 firmware update speeds up web browsing

JC Fletcher — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST

If you signed into PSN on your PS3 to, say, try to buy a Vita game, you'll have run into this already: surprise! There's a new mandatory system update. According to Sony, version 4.10 accounts for the change in the name of your account, from "PSN account" to "SEN account."

The update also makes improvements to the PS3 browser, including "improved display speed." We'd compare it for you, but the one time I personally tried to use the PS3 browser in the past, it froze my system and I had to pull out the power cord to reset. So if the new browser doesn't do that, it's a dramatic improvement.

PS3 firmware update speeds up web browsing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PlayStation Vita's Feb. 8 update adds video capture, OS X support, GPS tracking

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST

PlayStation Vita firmware version 1.60 is set to drop on February 8 (as least in Japan), and it'll bring several major features when it arrives. Among those features are standards like GPS tracking via a newly added Maps application, the ability to capture video, and the release of a support application for Mac OS X. It can also now serve mixed vanilla/chocolate froyo swirl. Finally!

Additionally, the update will banish mentions of the the phrase "PlayStation Network" from various services and replace it with the newly renamed "Sony Entertainment Network" branding. Considering that the PSP is still supported by Sony but has yet to receive any form of Mac support for content management, we're gonna go ahead and call this a big step forward.

PlayStation Vita's Feb. 8 update adds video capture, OS X support, GPS tracking originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vita launch issues in Japan result in apology, software update [update]

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST

For us suckers in North America, the PlayStation Vita is still just a distant object of desire. For the Japanese, though, the Vita is already a couple days into its life, but apparently it's got some ... issues. Our tech savvy brethren at Engadget are reporting that some users are experiencing "software bugs, unresponsive touchscreens and complete system freezes," resulting in many taking to social media to voice frustration.

Sony, as it turns out, is listening, already issuing a software update and penning an apology letter. The video above showcases some of the Vita's problematic issues, and it should at very least help you to sympathize with your Japanese equivalent's frustration. The letter, well, it's in Japanese, and it's kinda non-specific, so you may wanna skip that part. Regardless, with any luck, said issues will be ironed out by the time Vita arrives on US shores on February 22. Here's hoping, anyway.

Update: Sony UK counters this report and others, saying the company, "can't find any evidence of widespread glitches."

[Thanks Gerry!]

Vita launch issues in Japan result in apology, software update [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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PS3 firmware 4.00 prepares for Vita sync

JC Fletcher — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:06:00 EST

The PS3 hits an important milestone today -- its firmware version number is a nice, round 4.00. Celebrations for the event include: mandatory system updates for all.

This update prepares your PS3 to interface with the PS Vita, which would be really awesome if anyone had a PS Vita. 4.00 sets up the PS3 to copy games, save data and other media back and forth between the Vita and PS3. Firmware 4.00 also allows Plus members to opt in and out of several automatic update procedures, including patches, trophy sync, and recommendations.

It's not the most exciting update, since we don't have Vitas yet, but it's also not the least exciting -- that honor is reserved for updates that do nothing but address security.

PS3 firmware 4.00 prepares for Vita sync originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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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.

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PS3 non-mandatory firmware update 3.73 adds 'stability'

Justin McElroy — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:50:00 EST

PS3 firmware 3.73 knows you've been too long bullied by all those firmware updates that require you to download them. But 3.73, he's different. He's casual. He's not a mandatory patch, he's completely optional. There's no pressure here, he knows you've had enough of that from those other guys.

But when it's time, 3.73 will be there. And when you're ready to accept his love, he'll be ready to improve the stability of "certain PS3 format software." Yeah, he knows that sounds vague. But girl, maybe that's exactly what you need.

PS3 non-mandatory firmware update 3.73 adds 'stability' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 firmware 3.70 now live, adds automatic trophy sync and shuffles video services around

JC Fletcher — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST

It's time again for a PS3 firmware update -- which means, according to cosmic law, you were just about to turn on your PS3 for a quick ten-minute gaming session.

PS3 firmware 3.70, which we heard about just yesterday, is now live. As advertised, it enhances the PlayStation-Plus exclusive automatic downloading feature, adding automatic trophy sync and automatic cloud save uploads. It also adds various enhancements for Blu-Ray movies, and 3D image viewing, if you want to see what it's like to wear 3D glasses while looking at your 3DS pictures.

And a quick PSA: Firmware 3.70 also adds a new XMB category, "TV/Video Services." When you can't figure out where your Hulu and Netflix icons have gone, they're in there.

PS3 firmware 3.70 now live, adds automatic trophy sync and shuffles video services around originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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.

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Mandatory Xbox 360 update sneakily halts Call of Duty pirates

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST

Apparently, Microsoft sneaked a super secret feature into its recent, Boot-to-Disc-restoring mandatory Xbox 360 firmware update: the ability to stop Call of Duty: Black Ops and Modern Warfare 2 pirates and hackers dead in their tracks. Posters on the Xbox-Scene forums are claiming that consoles with backed-up versions of the two games took an awfully long time to download the relatively small update -- and once it arrived, it stopped backup versions of the two games from working altogether.

Was this a coincidence, or was Microsoft targeting illicit players of two of Xbox Live's most active multiplayer titles? We've contacted Microsoft to try and find out.

Mandatory Xbox 360 update sneakily halts Call of Duty pirates originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Minor' PSP firmware update coming soon

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST

Great news, everybody: That little number that tells you the current firmware version on your PSP is about to get incrementally higher. A post on PlayStation Blog has announced the impending release of firmware update v6.37, which "is a minor update that improves system software stability during use of some features."

We wish we could provide you with more details than that, but the aforementioned announcement post was exactly two sentences long, and we're still waiting to hear back from Sony. (Rumor has it that if you hold the PSP vertically and hold in the R button while shaking it violently, Skittles pour out of the UMD slot.)

[Thanks, Miguel.]

'Minor' PSP firmware update coming soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSP firmware update 6.35 prepares America for Qriocity, adds x-Radar to XMB in Japan

David Hinkle — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 18:32:00 EST

Back in September, Sony revealed plans for a music service called "Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity." Today, the company has announced details for upcoming firmware update 6.35, which prepares the PSP for the music streaming service by adding an icon under the Music section of the XMB. So don't get all freaked out when you see it and think it's been stealth-launched or anything. On the PlayStation blog, Sony VP Eric Lempel says the new firmware is "coming soon."

In Japan, PSP users can now take advantage of some built-in mapping software without having to go through the PlayStation Store and download the app x-Radar. As part of firmware 6.35 released overseas today, Andriasang says the app's now moved to the XMB, utilizing maps and guides purchased through the PlayStation Store to provide users with different types of data. The software itself also sees an update today, which you can read about here.

PSP firmware update 6.35 prepares America for Qriocity, adds x-Radar to XMB in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 firmware 3.40 update adds enhanced Facebook integration, video editing 'soon'

JC Fletcher — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:29:00 EST

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

PS3 firmware update 3.40 is on the way "soon," according to Sony, but since it adds the framework for PlayStation Plus, which launches tomorrow, we think it's safe to expect the update to arrive today or early tomorrow.

In addition to support for the new subscription service, firmware 3.40 adds a few new features to the XMB. The photo gallery is now enhanced with sharing capabilities, allowing users to upload to Facebook and Picasa, browse and comment on photos, and share photos with PSN friends. And strangely enough, you'll now be able to edit video on the PS3 through the new "Video Editor and Uploader" function. Those videos can then be put on Facebook or YouTube directly from the PS3.

In addition to these new media sharing options, users can now rate PlayStation Store purchases with up to five stars (which was a totally original idea when a certain website started doing it), and have access to more power-saving settings, including a default automatic-turnoff time of two hours.

The most interesting new PS3 user experience upgrade is actually totally separate from the PS3. Sony is introducing a PSN application for Facebook, allowing users to display their PSN profiles directly into their Facebook accounts, view friends' profiles, and send PSN friend requests through Facebook. Yes, you'll be able to use one social networking service to invite your friends to connect with you on another.

PS3 firmware 3.40 update adds enhanced Facebook integration, video editing 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Man files class action suit over PS3 Other OS support removal

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST

Worried that Sony was going to get off lightly, only suffering the slings and arrows of a few angry commenters after removing the PS3's support for other operating systems like Linux? You might endorse the actions of Anthony Ventura, who recently filed a class action lawsuit against the company, claiming its actions represent a breach of contract, false advertising and a handful of other unsavory, unscrupulous business practices.

In the suit, Ventura claims the Other OS function is "extremely valuable," adding that while players aren't forced to download the new update, those who don't are left unable to access the PSN, or enjoy any games or Blu-ray movies which require the new firmware. The filing mentions no specific amount of damages sought, but "the amount in controversy is in excess of $US5 million."

Ventura's lawsuit is a long shot, and if it does bear fruit, it likely won't do so for a long, long time. Those in search of a more expedient payday: have you considered moving to Europe, and then asking really nicely for some compensation?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Man files class action suit over PS3 Other OS support removal originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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No 3D Blu-ray movie support for PS3 this summer

Richard Mitchell — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:40:00 EST

While an upcoming June PS3 firmware update will bring support for 3D games, it looks like console owners will have to wait to watch 3D Blu-ray movies. According to Tech Radar site Home Cinema Choice, the upcoming PS3 firmware update will not enable support for 3D Blu-rays. In other words, you can enjoy those free games you'll get with that fancy new Bravia 3D TV, but don't bother picking up Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. At least, not right away. 3D movie support is expected to arrive with another firmware update later this year.

[Via 1UP]

No 3D Blu-ray movie support for PS3 this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Apr 2010 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firmware 3.10 lets PS3 users report errors directly to Sony

David Hinkle — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST

Sometimes we do crazy things -- in this case, it's something crazy for you, dear reader. You see, when PS3 Attitude reported users who had run into freezes or other bouts of unsatisfactory performance from their PS3 could report the issue to Sony thanks to firmware 3.10, directly through their console, we thought it was something we'd try to recreate on our own. After scratching our noggin for a few minutes, trying to come up with the best way to put our PS3 into danger, we figured a swift and hard power-down via the back toggle switch on the console would be the best bet to trigger this supposed new error report system. Lo and behold, we received the message you see above.

So that's new, right? After winning that battle in the war of trying to break our PS3, we then decided to pick up our console and shake it like some kind of crazed British nanny, but that did not get us the results we were looking for. As such, we contacted Sony and a spokesperson told us that, yes, firmware 3.10 does add a feature to the console where users can report issues following console freezes and the like. So, now you know!

Firmware 3.10 lets PS3 users report errors directly to Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 firmware 3.10 offering Facebook integration today

JC Fletcher — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:45:00 EST

Sony announced that the next iteration of the PlayStation 3's firmware will be available for download starting today. Version 3.10 adds Facebook functionality to the PS3, including automatic Trophy and purchase updates. It also allows developers to include "trigger points" for Facebook integration in their PS3 games. Sony calls this Facebook service "the first phase of a variety of new features to further connect and enhance the online social experiences of PlayStation(R)3 (PS3[TM]) computer entertainment system owner."

Other, less marquee features, include a new grid layout for photos and an updated friends list with the ability for users to change the background color of profiles. You can see the update in action on video here.

PS3 firmware 3.10 offering Facebook integration today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firmware 2.76 coming soon, adds nothing of interest

Jem Alexander — Wed, 13 May 2009 21:00:00 EST

Ready or not, here comes another firmware update. Firmware 2.76 is due to arrive soon and will "improves the playback quality of some PS3 format software." In our experience, this can mean two things: either the firmware update will appear to do nothing whatsoever, or it will add several tiny features and fixes that we will need to discover for ourselves. Either way, the update should be hitting within the next day or so, if previous updates are anything to go by.

If you discover anything interesting hidden in firmware 2.76, be sure to let us know in the comments below.

Firmware 2.76 coming soon, adds nothing of interest originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firmware 2.60 brings photo gallery, DivX 3.11

Jem Alexander — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST

Filed under: News

Sony is giving PlayStation 3 owners a surprise gift today. Firmware 2.60 will be dropping imminently and will bring with it several new features. The photo gallery is a new installable feature which gives you a large variety of ways of sorting and displaying your photos. You can see more of that in the video above.

DivX 3.11 is also now supported by PS3s, as well as guest access to the PlayStation Store. This means that whether you've signed up or not you can now browse the PlayStation Store and see all the cool stuff you're missing out on. No doubt there'll be some further, secret features included in 2.60. If you find anything else be sure to let us know. We'll update as soon as the new firmware goes live.

[UPDATE] Firmware 2.60 is now live. Retrieve it via the "System Update" XMB menu option.

Firmware 2.60 brings photo gallery, DivX 3.11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Go! Go! Firmware 2.50 now available to download

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 23:45:00 EST

Filed under: Firmware Updates

Looks like you're going to have to manually select Network Update for this one again, folks. Firmware 2.50 is now available for your PS3 and it includes these features:

The [BD/DVD Settings] option under [Settings] has been renamed as [Video Settings]
Also, multiple video content items can be now played in order. You can edit this option in [Video Settings] -> [Sequential Playback]
A scene search feature has been added to the [Video] category. You can easily select a scene that you want to watch. This feature can be accessed from [Scene Search] in the control panel that is displayed during video playback.
The [Sign Up for PlayStation Network] and [Account Management] options have been improved. You an now create and manage an account more easily.
A feature has been added that allows the PS3 system or wireless controller to turn off automatically when not used for a certain period of time. You can set this feature in [Settings] -> [Power Save Settings]

Additionally, the firmware update adds Flash 9 support, so you can actually watch videos on the PS.blog and our site when browsing on your PS3. It also gives you a free unicorn.* Download it now!

[Thanks, to everyone that sent this in!]

* Not true.

Go! Go! Firmware 2.50 now available to download originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2008 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firmware update 2.42 now available

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 22:59:00 EST

Filed under: Firmware Updates

An unexpected treat for PS3 owners appeared on the PSN tonight. Firmware 2.42 is now available for download. We're currently in the process of downloading and installing the update, but rest assured that we'll have full details soon. ~~(We're guessing it'll be Life With PlayStation, promised to arrive by the end of the month.)~~

Update: Looks like our guess was wrong. There doesn't appear to be anything new on the XMB. Perhaps this is just another "stability" or "security" update. We'll update again if we find out more.

Update #2: The official word: "This update improves the playback quality of some PLAYSTATION 3 and PlayStation format software." A bit underwhelming? Perhaps.

[Thanks, John!]

Firmware update 2.42 now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 22:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firmware 4.05 will have new music playback visualizers

Alan Tsang — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:15:00 EST

Filed under: News

According to Playstation.Blog, firmware 4.05 will be arriving shortly bringing new visualizers during music playback. Nothing else has been disclosed other than a tease of "other features." Some of us here use our PSP as our primary music player, so this new update will spice things up a bit.

Update: Firmware 4.05 includes two new visualizers, one if you have a wallpaper and one if you don't. If you don't have a wallpaper, the waves you see in the background are reduced to one. If you do a have a wallpaper, a water rippling effect can be seen on top of your image. Overall, very underwhelming.

Firmware 4.05 will have new music playback visualizers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Firmware 4.00 now available on Network Update

Andrew Yoon — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:10:00 EST

Filed under: News

Yesterday, PS3 got a new firmware update (2.36), and today PSP follows suit. This is the big 4.00 update, but unfortunately the biggest addition to this patch is the ability to search Google directly from the XMB. Yay? Here's the official changelog:

[Internet Search] has been added as a feature under [Network].
You can now change viewing speed during video playback by pressing the Up and Down buttons. Use this feature if you want to watch a video quickly, or if you want to slow down playback and listen to the dialogue carefully.

Check out a helpful video overview of the update, after the cut, brought to you by PSPGadgetZ.
No wi-fi? Download the update from us:
Click here to download. Extract EBOOT.PBP file and place in Memory Stick in the PSP/GAME/UPDATE folder.

Continue reading Firmware 4.00 now available on Network Update

Firmware 4.00 now available on Network Update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 firmware v2.36 available now

Randy Nelson — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:33:00 EST

Filed under: Sony PlayStation 3

That was fast. Just a matter of hours after mentioning it on its official blog, SCEA has flipped the switch and gone live with v2.36 of the PlayStation 3 firmware.

According to the release notes, this revision merely introduces some stability fixes for certain PS1 titles. The real biggie everyone's waiting for is firmware 2.4, which today was confirmed to include in-game XMB support along with the introduction of "trophies," something Sony promises we'll learn more about "soon."

Just when we'd come back from the suggested 15-minute break from MGS4, too!

[Thanks, SoCoolCurt!]

PS3 firmware v2.36 available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PS3 firmware 2.36 now live

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:15:00 EST

Filed under: Firmware Updates

As promised, PS3 firmware 2.36 is live. This is a precursor to the very desirable firmware 2.40, which will include in-game XMB. Firmware 2.36, on the other hand, will only improve "system stability when playing select PlayStation format software titles." That's better than nothing, right?

In order to access the PSN, this firmware update is required. For everyone else, you can just wait for the big 2.40 update.

PS3 firmware 2.36 now live originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony outlines firmware update plans for 2008

Nick Doerr — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Interviews, News

Faster and fewer -- that's apparently Sony's plan for 2008 regarding firmware updates. In an interview with MTV Multiplayer, SCEA's Eric Lempel talked a bit about the old firmware strategy and outlined what we can expect in 2008. He said that "We're trying to certainly cut down on the amount of times we do it ... We definitely understand that it does happen frequently and that can be somewhat annoying to some users." We haven't been particularly bothered by it, but a few times it has hindered our ability to satisfy an urge to play a game online.

For those who got the PS3 around launch in November of 2006, you will have experienced the original PlayStation servers -- those things that were really slow and irritating? Things have sped up since then and things are planned to continue to speed up, says Lempel. In addition to little things like no longer having to connect the controller via USB during updates, "we'll continue to work on other ways of making it easier and faster and we'll probably roll those out some time next year." We look forward to hearing what's in store for us. In-game messaging and a possible soundtrack customization option is really all we need. Nobody can honestly care about watching a streaming video while their game is paused, right? Or viewing a slideshow of pictures? Let's be reasonable.

Sony outlines firmware update plans for 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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