While excitement is building for the next generation of consoles it is easy to forget that the current generation is still receiving updates. Updates are necessary to maintain the incredible success of the PlayStation consoles and while this latest patch won't be a game-changer, it will be useful for players who enjoy connecting through the PlayStation 4.
Many players will have one eye on the PlayStation 5 specs and the capabilities that will be coming this year through the new console. However, Sony has now begun beta testing its system software update 8.00 for the PlayStation 4. Several players have shared the fact that they are testing out the new software but it doesn't seem to be a radical change to the inner workings of the console.
The test appears to be taking place in Japan before being expanded elsewhere and it enables the testers to have parties with up to 20 people. This won't impact too many gamers drastically but some may appreciate the additional functionality and flexibility of the feature. There is also a muting feature that will be handy for players who want to not speak for a short duration (usually players have to disconnect themselves to this). At the moment there does seem to be early issues with switching from public to private parties, but these kinds of tests are designed to get ahead of these issues. With that in mind, it will probably be fixed by the time the software update 8.00 comes to most PlayStation 4s.
The small update is likely reflective of Sony switching focus to the release of the PlayStation 5 and the challenges that come with such a process. With that in mind, fans should not expect radical changes to the PlayStation 4 in the near future as it will likely be phased out in the next couple of years. Nonetheless, this update may give insight into the party and chat capabilities of the upcoming PlayStation 5.
This update won't be too noticeable for solo gamers, but some players may take comfort in the fact that the PlayStation 4 is still being worked on, even if it won't be unveiling any game-changing features any time soon.
The PlayStation 4 is available now.
Source: MP1ST
