Highlights
- PS5's September 2023 system update brings new accessibility features, including the ability to use a second DualSense controller for assistance.
- The update also enhances audio options, allowing 3D Audio on compatible Dolby Atmos-enabled HDMI devices.
- Players can now connect with friends more easily, invite them to private parties, and enjoy expanded PS5 storage with up to 8TB M.2 SSDs.
Sony pushed out the September 2023 system software update for the PlayStation 5, which introduces new accessibility and audio features to the console. The latest patch also extends the selection of high-end SSDs that can be installed in the PS5.
A PS5 beta update that rolled out in July served as a precursor to this release. That package debuted support for larger-capacity SSDs and the ability to use two DualSense controllers as a unified source of input for accessibility purposes, among other things. Following some six weeks' worth of testing, both of those features have now made their way to the latest stable version of the PS5 operating system.
More specifically, the September 2023 update allows users to expand their PS5 storage space with an M.2 SSD by a maximum of 8TB, up from the original 4TB. Since the console itself ships with some 825GB of non-volatile memory, the ability to increase that capacity tenfold should make it more future-proof. However, doing so is currently a costly affair, as 8TB M.2 SSDs retail in the $1,000 ballpark, which is twice as expensive as the regular PS5.
The latest system update to the PS5 also refines its social features, with players now being able to invite friends into a private party without creating a new group or adding them to an existing one. Both open and closed party invitations can be directed at groups instead of just individuals following this newest patch. The PS5 party UI went through some additional changes as well, as underlined by the addition of Share Screen previews that will pop up next to the highlighted names of joinable friends even before the player connects with them. Speaking of social sessions, the Friends tab now clearly labels online friends who are in an activity that can be joined.
More informative Game Help cards are also part of the package, allowing players to glance their completed, available, in-progress, and upcoming activities. Meanwhile, the settings menu has been expanded with the addition of a comprehensive Discover Tips section, as well as the option to mute the PlayStation 5 beep sound. Stateside and British users now also have access to improved voice command options, including the ability to ask for "help" or "what's new" after waking the console with a "hey, PlayStation" phrase.
Finally, the September 2023 update also adds PS Remote Play support for select Android TV devices. The expansion is limited to the 4K variant of the Chromecast with Google TV and Bravia XR A95L, Sony's premium OLED television. The gaming giant intends to follow up on this patch with another comprehensive update to the PS App for Android and iOS, which is planned to roll out before the end of September.
PS5 September 2023 System Software Update Patch Notes
- New accessibility features, such as using a second DualSense controller for assistance
- New audio options that allow 3D Audio powered by Tempest 3D AudioTech to be enjoyed on compatible Dolby Atmos-enabled HDMI devices
- New ways to connect with other players and customize your multiplayer sessions
- Support for larger-capacity M.2 SSDs (up to 8TB)
Source: PlayStation
