PS5 beta update brings back folders, 1440p, and more

By Jesse Lennox July 28, 2022

A new PlayStation 5 system software update beta has been released today that brings back folders, adds 1440p support, requests to share screen, and more.

Sony has utilized system software betas to test upcoming features and additions to its consoles since the PS4. Users can opt-in for a chance to be selected to test out these new features before they are finalized and rolled out to all consoles. Previous betas have revealed new features like voice commands, new social features, and VRR support. Those selected to participate in these betas receive an email with a download code.

A folder with ps5 games in it. — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Outlined in an official PlayStation Blog post today, Sony announced several new features select players will see in this software beta. These include the addition of “gamelists,” which function just like folders did on the PS4. Players will now be able to create their own gamelists by selecting the Your Collection tab and selecting Create Gamelist. You will be able to add up to 100 titles to any list, and have a maximum of 15 gamelists at once.

This update also gives a new resolution option of 1440p HDMI video output for compatible monitors and TVs. This will allow games that support this resolution to display at their native resolutions, or give improved anti-aliasing through supersampling down to 1440p.

A handful of social features will also be tested. These include the ability to request share screen from party members to watch their gameplay, get notifications of any games you can join when joining a party, send stickers and voice messages through the Game Base, and more.

The lack of folders on the PS5 was a major cause of consternation among PS4 players who upgraded to the new console and found they had no way to easily organize their games. While we still have to hope for customizable themes to return, gamelists are a long-overdue feature fans should be happy to finally get back.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Jesse Lennox loves writing, games, and complaining about not having time to write and play games. He knows the names of more…

Gaming

New PS5 update makes the DualSense’s mic and speaker even better

A DualSense and DualSense Edge sit on a table together.

Sony rolled out another beefy PlayStation 5 update today with the main goals of improving the speakers and mic on the DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers and deepening the number of Share Screen viewer interactions.

According to a PlayStation Blog post from when this update first entered beta testing in February, the speaker on the DualSense controller will now be able to output sounds more clearly at a higher volume. If you've been playing Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, this update is useful because it will make Chadley sound better when they are speaking through your DualSense. Sony also says it's using machine learning to improve noise cancellation on the DualSense's built-in microphone.

Gaming

PS4 vs. PS5: which console should you buy in 2024?

PlayStation 5 controller and PS5.

PlayStation 5 has been available for several years now, and it's easier than ever to find it in stock at retailers. The new-gen hardware makes big upgrades over its predecessor, letting gamers enjoy better graphics, shorter loading times, and support for the fancy DualSense controller. It's also much more expensive than PS4, so while PS5 is better than PS4 in most regards, it might not be ideal for frugal shoppers.

But is PS4 or PS5 the better choice in 2024? Does the aging PS4 really make sense to purchase right now, or should you opt for the PS5? From pricing and available games to storage and resolution, here's a closer look at these two popular consoles.
PS5 vs. PS4 vs. PS4 Pro specs
Even a cursory glance at the specs of the PS5 shows that it’s in a different league than the PS4 (and even the PS4 Pro). Sony has improved the capabilities of its platform in every way, adding more efficient storage, faster compute parts, support for larger capacity disks, and support for higher resolutions. We know there are two versions of the PS5 -- the Standard Edition and Digital Edition -- both of which will offer the same specs (with the exception of the omission of a disc drive with the Digital Edition).

Gaming

Sea of Thieves confirmed for PS5 as Xbox details multiplatform rollout

Enemies in Sea of Thieves

Microsoft has finally laid out when people can expect Sea of Thieves, Hi-Fi Rush, Pentiment, and Grounded to go fully multiplatform.

On Wednesday morning, Pentiment and Grounded were confirmed for Nintendo Switch during the February Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, and Hi-Fi Rush's PS5 release date leaked shortly thereafter. After all that, Microsoft put out an Xbox Wire post detailing which four of its Xbox console-exclusive games will go multiplatform and when they will do so. Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer previously refused to do so during a podcast confirming Xbox's multiplatform plans on February 15.