Sony Releases PlayStation 3 Firmware 2.0

Sony has unleashed firmware version 2.0 for its PlayStation 3 game console, adding remote start, a new information board, and playlists for music and photos.

Sony Computer Entertainment has released firmware version 2.0 for its PlayStation 3 video game console. The new update adds a Remote Start feature that enables users to start up their PS3 systems remotely when they want to use their PSP to access media stored on their PS3 over the Internet, along with a new information board on the XMB (XrossMediaBar) screen with PlayStation news and updates. The update also lets users customize the XMB with custom themes, create music and photo playlists, and adds a PlayStationNetwork category to the XMB.

“PlayStation 3 is constantly evolving and this latest firmware is a great example of how we can make existing features such as Remote Play even more user friendly,” said SCEA’s Director of PlayStation Network Operations Eric Lempel, in a statement. “These types of updates show the value of PS3 goes beyond your initial purchase, and we’re continuing to evaluate new technology upgrades and consumer interests to develop future firmware updates throughout PS3’s life cycle.”

The Remote Start feature complements the existing Remote Play functionality by enabling users to access content on their PS3’s from anywhere via the Internet using their PSP, without having to leave their PS3’s on all the time. Once users are done with Remote Play, they can also turn off their PS3s using their PSP. However, reports have the PS3’s cooling fan running all the time (and consuming power) when Remote Start is enabled, so it’s not clear how much better Remote Start is than just leaving a PS3 on 24/7, maybe running Folding@home.

A new Information Board feature on the XMB offers users news and information about new software releases, hardware news, updates, and content added to the PlayStation Store. Users can also personalize the XMB with custom themes (really just a combination of wallpaper and icons); Sony plans to offer a bunch of themes online, including themes tied to specific titles and game franchises, although user can also create their own theme and share them with other PS3 users. The firmware 2.0 update also enables users to create music and photo playlists, and adds a PlayStationNetwork category to the XMB so users can get to PlayStation Store and account management settings.

To install the new firmware, PS3 users can select System Update while their console is connected to the Internet. Users can also download the update to a PC and transfer it to the PS3 using USB storage or other media. Future game discs will also include the update.