The Playstation 4’s newest and biggest update will be on it’s way in a matter of days. According to the Playstation Blog, we’ll be seeing the big changed coming September 30th.
The above photo is just one of the visual changes you’ll see after the update is implemented this week. While it is quite similar to what your used to, there have been some tweaks to the UI and especially the social aspects and capabilities of the system. The Blog points out that the Beta roll-out and data went a long way in determining exactly what is changing in the 3.0 Software Update.
So What Will Change?
This update is focused on creating new ways to connect with friends and players around the world, expanding the social capabilities of the system even further.
Social connectivity and capabilities have not always been the easiest to access and use on the Playstation systems, and as the quote says above, that may just change on the 30th. Starting with smaller convenience features like a PS Plus icon from the main menubar, a great idea for those who already have it, and a smart approach on their part to entice people to sign up (do it, it’s worth it!).
Some of the other features rolling out include one that many saw a couple months back with this screenshot below. Leaked with a Journey screenshot shortly after its PS4 release, a calendar icon on the main screen of the system:
The calendar icon will help you schedule, and see events laid out for games you play. Anything from Destiny Raids, to major broadcasts can and will be able to be displayed in the app.
More sharing capabilities will be here too. YouTube Live will now be in the Sharing menu along with Twitch and UStream, as well as more minor tweaks like uploading video clips directly to Twitter, or saving screenshots in PNG format, not just JPEG, or sending stickers to friends and groups, sort of an emoticon approach to “texting” in-game.
One of the biggest changes though will be the ability to favourite groups of friends and players you frequently play with, and the ability to build Communities around your games and friends list. The updates will be focusing these social capabilities above all else, attempting to help groups, clans, and “besties” continues to play together. Simply put:
Communities include a message board with general discussion, screenshots shared by players, and the ability to join parties / games.
Look for the update to hit your inter-webs and PS4 download tray on September 30th. To me it seems like bit by bit the PS4 is becoming more accessible to the online community, and the changes implemented in 3.0 should help those clambering for a more robust community builder feel a little more at home.
