With all Playstation 5 System software release We’ve introduced new features designed to improve the many ways you can access your favorite content, navigate your console, or create new gaming memories with friends. Today, we’re excited to release a new beta version of the PS5 system software that introduces new accessibility features as well as audio options that make it possible to enjoy 3D audio powered by Tempest 3D AudioTech on compatible HDMI devices that support Dolby Atmos such as soundbars, TVs or home theater systems. The beta also includes more options for quickly finding games and console tips, new ways to connect with other players and customize multiplayer sessions, and support for larger capacity M.2 SSDs (up to 8TB).
While access to the beta will be limited to invited participants in select countries*, we plan to release the update globally later this year. If you are selected to participate in the beta, you will receive an email invitation today when it is available for download. Some features available during the beta phase may not make it into the final release or may see significant changes.
Without further ado, here are some of the beta highlights:
New access features
Use a second console to help. You can now assign a second console to one account as an auxiliary console, and use two controllers to operate the PS5 console as if you were using one console. This feature introduces a new way to enjoy games cooperatively with others or help a friend or child navigate a particularly difficult section of the game.
To use an assistant console, go to [Settings] > [Accessibility] > [Controllers] > [Use Second Controller for Assistance]then turn it on [Use Assist Controller]. You can use an auxiliary controller when your main controller is a DualSense or DualSense Edge wireless controller, or a third-party controller supported by PS5. **
Haptic feedback for the system user interface. You now have the option to trigger haptic feedback effects while navigating your PS5 using your DualSense, DualSense Edge or PS VR2 Sense controller.
When enabled, system sound effects will be reflected for certain events physically through touch, such as moving focus, reaching the end of a scrollable section, selecting a tile, or when a notification is received or a game is launched. This optional feature improves immersion and is especially useful for players with some level of visual or hearing impairment, who value additional feedback on their input. To turn this feature on, go to [Settings] > [Accessibility] > [Controllers]then turn it on [Haptic Feedback During Console Navigation].
Support for compatible Dolby Atmos-enabled audio devices
3D audio powered by Tempest 3D AudioTech can now be enjoyed by those who own Dolby Atmos-compatible HDMI devices such as soundbars, televisions, or home theater systems. Tempest 3D AudioTech is specifically shown for the Dolby Atmos audio hardware used – including the overhead channels – allowing for greater levels of immersion in PS5 games’ soundscapes. ***
To turn on Dolby Atmos, go to [Settings] > [Sound] > [Audio Output] > [Audio Format (Priority)]then select [Dolby Atmos].
Social feature improvements
Update the user interface of the party. You can now invite a player to a closed party without automatically adding the player to the group or creating a new group. Additionally, players can now send open or closed group invites to groups instead of just individual players.
Share a screen preview. When someone shares their screen in a group you can join, you’ll now see a preview image of their sharing screen, even before you enter the group.
Join friends’ game sessions easily. Now you can easily see which of your friends are in an activity you can join under [Friends] Unpaid bill.
The Join icon will be displayed next to friends who are playing a game that you can join. You can join a friend’s game directly by pressing the options button and choosing [Join Game]or by selecting the “Join” button on their profile card.
Axis Tournament Game. In Game Center, you can now see how many tournaments you’ve entered and the highest position you’ve achieved, as well as when the next tournament starts. You can check the box to see the full list of courses.
Reply to messages with emojis. You can now add reactions to messages with emojis, making it faster and easier to connect with friends.
Ease of use features
Find games in your library. You can now search for games within your game library.
Game help improvements. Game help cards have been improved. ****
In addition to activities in progress, you can now see available, previously available, upcoming, and completed activities. When you select a card, its details are now displayed on the right side of the card, making it easier to find objectives and corresponding hints.
Discover the new features. Browse helpful tips for getting the most out of your PS5 and learn about new features in the new Discover Tips section.
go to [Settings] > [Guide & Tips, Health & Safety, and Other Information] > [Guide and Tips]then select [Discover Tips] View all tips.
Mute the PS5 whistle. You can now mute the PS5’s beep, adjust when it turns on or off, or puts it to sleep.
go to [Settings] > [System] > [Beep Sound]. To adjust the beep volume, select [Volume]. To mute the beep, turn on [Mute Beep Sound].
Support for larger capacity M.2 SSDs
You can now use an M.2 SSD with a maximum capacity of 8TB (up from the previous limit of 4TB) to expand the storage space on your PS5 console.
Important: M.2 SSD drives must meet the requirements described in This page. Please read the page linked above carefully before purchasing any M.2 SSDs to use with your PS5.
We always appreciate hearing your feedback as we continue our journey to improve the PS5 user experience. Please tell us what you think in the comments section below!
* Access to the PS5 beta will be available to select participants in the US, Canada, Japan, UK, Germany and France (the same countries as the last beta of our system software).
**The DualSense Edge Wireless Controller cannot be used as an auxiliary controller. Some DualSense features, such as the motion sensor, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers, will automatically turn off when the controller is used as an auxiliary controller.
*** Media app providers can update their apps on PS5 to support Dolby Atmos audio, giving users another way to experience immersive audio in movies, TV shows and more in the future (These app updates are not currently supported in the PS5 beta.)
**** PlayStation Plus subscription required to use game help.
