Sony Computer Entertainment has released version 2.30 firmware for its PlayStation 3 gaming console, introducing an updated version of its online PlayStation Store and integrating DTS-HD audio output codecs designed to provide high-quality output from Blu-ray content as folks hook up their PS3s to their home theater systems.
“From day one, we have stayed committed to growing and enhancing PlayStation Store, and today we are pleased to deliver what our customers have been asking for—a more streamlined storefront that makes it easier and faster to find what they want,” said PlayStation Network’s senior director Susan Panico, in a statement.
The new PlayStation Store has been rebuild as a native PS3 application, rather than as a Web-based service: the result is a more responsive and seamless experience that lets users more easily search for, preview, and purchase PlayStation games, special content demos, videos, and Blu-ray movie trailers. The store features twice as many shopping categories so users can more easily find what they want, and a new preview feature that enables users to stream trailers and view game screenshots before purchasing.
The firmware 2.30 update also includes support for DTS-HD Master Audio and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, which offers 7.1 audio outpu at 96k/24bits, literally the same audio resolution that’s encoded on Blu-ray discs. The result is that home theater fans and audiophiles who’ve been itching to connect their PS3’s to their home theater systems for use as a Blu-ray movie player will be able to tap into the higher resolution audio.
PS3 owners can update their systems using the System Update feature, if their system is connected to the Internet. SOny also typically makes firmware updates available as standalone downloads via the PlayStation Web site, although version 2.30 is not yet available.
