Firmware Update
Ongoing coverage on Firmware Update.
Latest coverage
PlayStation 5's latest firmware update takes Community Activity out of beta, but it's missing a key feature
Sony has released a new PlayStation 5 firmware update that brings the Community Activity widget out of beta for all users. While the feature now includes 'Trending Now' and 'Top 10' views, it notably omits the player count data that was present in the beta version, a move that draws comparison to Steam's features. The update also includes unchanged features like default PlayStation's image upscaling tech (PSSR) for PS5 Pro and regional Bluetooth toggles.
This $200 Switch 2 SD card gave up the ghost, but PNY's handy fix kept my precious game data intact
A 1TB PNY microSD Express Card for the Nintendo Switch 2 stopped being recognized, but a firmware update released by PNY on June 17 resolved the issue, allowing the user to recover their game data and screenshots. The incompatibility was linked to Nintendo Switch 2 system update 22.0.0, with the user's card failing after update 23.0.0.
Nintendo Switch 2 Version 23.0.0 adds VRR support for TV mode and Mii Maker music (patch notes)
Nintendo has released firmware update Version 23.0.0 for both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. The update adds VRR support for TV mode and Mii Maker music to the Nintendo Switch 2, while the original Switch receives the ability to play virtual game cards using a temporary online license.
The latest firmware beta update automatically enables PSSR 2.0 on PS5 Pro, giving supported games 'sharper and…
A new beta firmware update for the PlayStation 5 Pro automatically enables PSSR 2.0, Sony's performance and image quality technology. This enhancement will be applied even to games that previously supported only the older version of PSSR, aiming to provide a sharper and clearer visual experience for supported titles.
A new PS5 firmware beta update is here, and it's good news for PS5 Pro owners
A new beta firmware update for the PlayStation 5 introduces the PSSR 2.0 upscaling technology as the default option for PS5 Pro owners and adds the ability to disable Bluetooth entirely in select regions. The Bluetooth feature is intended for environments like esports venues to simplify controller pairing.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered Gets Surprise PlayStation 5 Update for New Feature
Horizon Zero Dawn on PlayStation 5 has received a surprise update (1.09) that adds compatibility for the console's Power Saver function. This feature, enabled via system settings, aims to reduce power consumption during gameplay. The update is noted by a leaf icon on the game tile.
Red Line of Death Steam Machine Overreactions
A reported 'Red Line of Death' hardware failure on the Steam Machine, initially feared to be a widespread GPU issue, has been resolved. The problem, which caused a red light indicating GPU failure after a firmware update, was fixed by simply unplugging the machine overnight. Valve has confirmed this does not indicate a systemic hardware defect.
Uh-oh, the Steam Machine is having its own Xbox 360 "Red Ring of Death" moment, and Valve's lightbar…
A user reported their new Steam Machine experiencing a GPU failure, indicated by a red lightbar, after only 20 minutes of use, mirroring the "Red Ring of Death" issue that plagued the Xbox 360. Valve's error codes suggest a system-wide GPU failure, though the article speculates it could be a software or firmware issue. The user has opted to send the device back to Valve for support rather than attempting DIY fixes.
Latest Steam update brings Steam Controller firmware updates and bug fixes
Valve has released a new stable Steam Client update that includes firmware updates and bug fixes for the Steam Controller. The update addresses potential charging issues, adds LED dimming support, and reduces trigger deadzoning. Additional improvements are included for Steam Input, Downloads, Remote Play, and Steam Networking Sockets, with specific fixes for Steam Deck and SteamOS.
You can now dim the Steam Controller LED plus other Steam changes in a fresh Beta
Valve has released a new beta update for Steam and the Steam Controller, introducing several improvements. Key changes include the ability to dim the Steam Controller's LED via settings, reduced trigger deadzoning, and fixes for input issues on Linux and with Remote Play. The update also addresses joystick LED problems on the Legion Go.
Steam Beta brings even more Steam Controller tweaks and a firmware fix for Linux
Valve has released a new Steam Beta client with several updates for the Steam Controller, including firmware fixes and new input options. The update addresses issues with firmware updates on Linux, rumble haptics, and trackpad dead zones. A Steam Deck Beta client update also includes some of these changes.
Nintendo Alarmo Has Received A Small Update Today
Nintendo has released firmware Version 4.0.0 for its Nintendo Alarmo sound clock. This update introduces a new "Random Selection from Favorites" feature for alarms and changes the scene selection method. The update also includes general stability improvements and bug fixes.
Steam Beta fixes continuous rumble breaking the new Steam Controller Gyro
The latest Steam Beta client includes fixes for the Steam Controller, specifically addressing an issue where continuous rumble could break gyro input. A firmware update for the controller is available through the beta client, which also brings general improvements and fixes for Remote Play and the In-Game Overlay.
PS5 Home Page Refresh Live Now for Some Users
Sony has begun rolling out an updated PlayStation 5 home screen to some users, featuring minor tweaks to the layout of games and widgets. The update moves PS Plus and PS Store tabs to a secondary menu, offering quicker access to these and other applications within the PS5 ecosystem. This visual refresh is expected to reach all users in the coming months.
Nintendo Switch 2 firmware updated to Version 22.1.0 (patch notes)
Nintendo has released firmware update Version 22.1.0 for both the Nintendo Switch 2 and the original Nintendo Switch family of systems. The update focuses on general system stability improvements for an enhanced user experience, with patch notes remaining consistent across both console generations.
Talking Point: What Are You Playing This Weekend? (21st March)
Several Nintendo Life staff members share their weekend gaming plans, with Pokopia being a dominant choice on the Nintendo Switch. Other titles mentioned include Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Resident Evil Requiem, Yakuza Kiwami 3, and new PC releases like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II.
Save $50 on the PlayStation Portal, just in time for Sony's boosted bitrate update
Amazon is offering the PlayStation Portal for $149, a $50 discount, following a recent firmware update from Sony that improves streaming quality. This update prioritizes image fidelity, requiring a strong Wi-Fi connection, and enhances the handheld's ability to stream games with higher visual detail. The discount is available through Amazon's Resale program, offering devices that function like new with a 30-day return window.
Almost 20 Years Later, The PS3 Is Still Receiving Updates
Sony has released firmware update version 4.93 for the PlayStation 3, continuing its annual tradition of system maintenance. While patch notes cite performance improvements, the updates are believed to maintain Blu-ray encryption keys and curb jailbreaking activities. The PlayStation 5 also recently received an update enhancing PSSR capabilities and adding quality-of-life fixes.
PSA: Switch 2 Update Adds Handheld Mode Boost, Here's How To Use It
A recent firmware update for the Nintendo Switch 2, version 22.0.0, introduces a 'Handheld Mode Boost' feature. This allows compatible Switch games to run at 1080p resolution in handheld mode, an upgrade from the original Switch's 720p portable resolution, effectively mirroring TV mode performance.
PSA: Switch 2 Update Adds Handheld Mode Boost, Here's How To Use It
Nintendo has released a firmware update for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, adding a 'Handheld Mode Boost' feature. This update allows compatible Switch games to run at higher resolutions in handheld mode, matching the performance previously only available in TV mode. The Switch 2's handheld mode will support 1080p, an upgrade from the original Switch's 720p.
