Sony is rolling out a new PS5 system software beta today to select users. However, instead of keeping the beta features under NDA, the company has openly shared what the software does and what users can look forward to. In case you’re getting your hopes up for 1440p and VRR, this update once again lacks those features.

The biggest new features in the latest PS5 system update are the voice commands and Open Parties feature. The Open and Closed Parties is releasing on both PS4 and PS5. The feature, as it says, helps users create closed parties which only invited friends can join and open parties that anyone can join.

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This new party feature is similar to the original PS4 party system before it was revamped to the new clunky one. Sony is also adding individual voice chat volume control to the PS4 console. This was a feature planned to release way back in 2020. The PS5 already has this.

As for the voice control, this will let users control their PS5 console with the microphone built into the DualSense controller. Users can open games, apps, settings and control media playback using their voice too.



Similar to the PS4, users can just say “Hey PlayStation” and ask the console to find a game, setting or control what is happening while watching a TV show or listening to a song. Sony says this feature is only available in the UK and US at the moment but will roll out to other regions after launch.

Sony is also making changes to its home screen. Users can now choose to remove a game off of their home screens. A new “Keep in Home” toggle will decide whether or not the game block stays on the screen. At the moment, the home screen fills up with whatever you play and there’s no way to remove these blocks without deleting the game.

Take a look at the full list of new PS5 and PS4 features coming in the next system software update. These beta tests usually last a few weeks before releasing to the public so hopefully, everyone can play around with it soon.



New Party Chat Options

In response to community feedback, we’ve made some updates to the Parties system:

Open and Closed Parties (PS5 and PS4 betas)