PlayStation 3 gets firmware upgrade
Update: Sony has suspended the 2.40 upgrade, following reports that it has fouled up some PS3 systems (see Joystiq for more). While the two PS3s we have here at CNET were able to install the update with no adverse effects, it appears that some users were considerable less fortunate.
The 2.40 firmware update for the PlayStation 3 is now available. The free update, which Sony has been talking up for the past several days, adds a smattering of new features, including in-game access to the XMB (Cross Media Bar) home screen, custom soundtracks, a new trophy system, and a shortcut to Google searches.
The new features carry a host of caveats: the in-game XMB, customized soundtracks, and trophies aren't supported on all games; in-game XMB features are fairly limited; and the trophy system (with the a few exceptions) won't be retroactive to already-accomplished goals.
Trophies, for instance, are better viewed as a feature that will begin becoming more useful as future games begin supporting the feature. That said, both the trophy system and in-game XMB help the PS3 better compete with the achievements and Xbox Live or Xbox Dashboard features offered by the Xbox 360.
PS3 users will also notice a handful of other simple but useful touches with this update, including an on-screen clock, a quick shutdown icon, and a shortcut to Google searches. And speaking of the PS3's browser: while it's not new for 2.40, it's worth noting that the Web browser splash screen now includes shortcuts to YouTube, Flickr, and Facebook.
So what do you think? Does the 2.40 update add some worthwhile features to the PS3, or does the Xbox 360 or Nintendo Wii still have an edge? And what other features would you like to see come in future PS3 software upgrades?
PlayStation.com: Firmware 2.40 walk-through, part 1 (embedded above)
PlayStation.com: Firmware 2.40 walk-through, part 2
PlayStation.com: Firmware 2.40 FAQ
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Sina Loghavi
As far as it appears, this XBM stuff seems to be an exact copy of the 360's blades/dashboard system. I don't own a ps3, so I really wouldn't know how much of it is different/similar. I am very surprised to read that there wasn't an onscreen clock beforehand. Small things like that are what make the 360 so useful.
Considering the two platforms are nearly equal in features at the moment, this is fantastic.
Thanks for the standard XBox 360 fanboy response. As you yourself noted, you don't own a PS3. The main difference is that XBox Live charges you for your perks, while the Playstation Network does not. So everything that you have on your system online-wise you pay for, while the PS3 owners get it for free. That's a big enough difference for me.
The system update makes browsing the internet more efficient now and yeah... the clock is cool and what not if you want to be a person that limits themselves to a few hours of game play or needs to have a Gigantic clock on their screen when most likely there is another clock somewhere in their house. I think some of the updates with the in-game media bar and other things are a bit unneeded. I don't want to be interrupted while playing madden or something by a media bar that might accidentally pop up when I am mashing buttons away trying to score a touchdown or something.
As to BrujoSalazar, there is nothing wrong with updates. Everyone should update things frequently. The reason why most updates don't work on things (ie. the Ipod and Macs, some people download an update for ITunes but do not have an up to date computer with the right system software to run the new application, aka... people should take a few minutes of their time read the software requirements and then click the button). PS3 is an entire system update that will rework things for the system and that should not have a disadvantage to your previously purchased PS3 games... where if you were to upgrade something like a game or some kind of software or external piece of hardware above what the PS3 can handle, then you would have problems. Just make sure you read what you are upgrading when you update and it doesn't conflict with anything you have. You can browse the internet freely, but I am unaware if it supports flash/msmedia players at all. It would be nice if the next update allows PS users to view flash / media player material on the internet. I wouldn't mind watching some free Lost television shows in HD on my HDTV for free.
And I agree with Aversickuhls, PS3 is far superior to 360 in terms of online game play. Not to mention I don't have to pay some ridiculous monthly fee to play my games online with friends in other states. XBOX is part of the microsoft suck virus that plagues everything... they want to charge you for everything and give you stuff that is not current for over board prices... this should be flashing signals to the video game purchasers in our economy. Don't go with Microsoft they suck, exhibit A. Vista. Why purchase a system that doesn't have current standard technology and can only play out of date software... I doubt Sony will ever give their competitors the rights to have BluRay technology in their systems, so their competitors will be in quite a bit of trouble when BluRay games become the hottest thing to have on the market. Cross your fingers that software industries will hurry the heck up and start producing some mind blowing video game graphics.
So, are you really saying that you would rather have a free service, that gives you something that its biggest competitor (who charges $8 a month or $50 a year) TWO years late? That's pretty sad. I'd rather pay my $50 a year - which I make in less than half a day of work - and have my online experience be as enjoyable as possible.
Also (this is besides the fact), if all the other news stories I am reading are correct - you still can't leave voice messages or have voice chat conversations? Wow. I use the voice chat all the time - I am at college and my brother is at home. We both have 360's and we might be playing two different games but we will set up voice chat and talk to each other.
I own the PS3, Xbox360, and a Wii. While the Wii is fun and is really all remote, the PS3 blows the Xbox 360 in hardware and soon softtware away. What will M$ do as PS3 games like Metal Gear Solid 4 use 50GB for graphics in a superior HD game with its measly 9GB standard DVD player? Not to mention I was able to completely replace my upscaling DVD player with the PS3 that also plays back Blu-Ray! Keep paying for online play while Sony offers this for free. The update you are railing against is minor in the scheme of the PS3. It is a TOTAL entertainment system. The Xbox is not. And I OWN an Xbox 360.
I do not think you want to talk about the hadware reliability of the XBOX360, mine spent SIX MONTHS going back and forth to M$ with the WORST customers service experience anyone can imagine! Absolutely terrible support. My only complaint with my PS3 was finding an 80GB Metal Gear Solid 4 bundle (which I did). Best investment ever! I am thinking of selling my Xbox 360 on ebay! It does not hold a candle to a PS3...
Voice chat? Voice messages? On a video game machine? I prefer to avoid that particular type of redundancy. Call me old fashioned, but I 'll keep my PDAphone, Laptop and PS3 discrete. Going home to update the PS3 right now.