Sony’s latest improvement to the PS4 software (the 1.70 update) delivers a slew of new features that expand social connectivity options and make it easier for gamers to share their gaming experiences. Additionally, the PS Vita has also been updated in order to improve compatibility with the PS4 through the enabling of Automatic Device Registration, making it easier to connect the devices for remote play and second screen functionality. The PlayStation App will also receive some love in the form of an update that allows users to change their profile picture by uploading from their phone or camera. Friend requests will also be able to be sent via e-mail and text message, making it more convenient to add Friends to your network.
Patrick Lagana (Head of Product Marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment Australia) said:
“We’re immensely proud of the current success of PS4, having already built a community of over 7 million gamers worldwide. Our commitment to gamers is at the heart of our success, and this update is another great example of that. We have listened to our community and delivered the most highly anticipated and requested features. Being the most socially connected console is very important to us and with this update, we are confident of achieving that and creating a unique and exciting experience.”
Once installed, the 1.70 update will allow PS4 owners to utilise the new SHAREfactory app, allowing them to easily edit gameplay videos before sharing them. The app includesa number of filters, transitions and themes to personalise each clip and can be used in addition to text, video commentary, picture-in-picture (should a PlayStation Camera be connected) or even a custom soundtrack. All now streamable in 720p HD resolution via Twitch and Ustream. Players will also be happy to note that this update will finally disable the High-bandwidth Digital Copy Protection (HDCP) that has prevented the use of capture devices. So feel free to capture and share footage to a much broader audience. The SHARE button’s new ability to save video straight to USB should also prove useful in such situations. What a handy update this is. Speaking of handy features, and following from the “Play As You Download” feature already in place on the PlayStation Store, players will now be able to automatically download pre-ordered games prior to its release. This way, players can enjoy their games as soon as they launch. No more of that pesky download bar dampening spirits.
The 1.70 update also includes:
- DUALSHOCK 4: Brightness settings for the light bar will be available in Bright, Medium and Dim, accessible in the Settings menu. Users also will have the option to control the on-screen keyboard using the DUALSHOCK 4 controller’s touchpad, with inputs registered by clicking the touchpad or pressing the X button.
- PlayStation Store: Alternative Payment Methods (APMs) will be introduced for content purchased within PS Store, including PayPal support.
- SHARE: Updated settings will allow users to upload screenshots or video clips during a live broadcast, change the default recording time for gameplay captures, and select only the specific screenshots and video clips they want to save on their PS4 system. In addition, users will have more control with the privacy of their uploaded SHARE videos or screenshots on Facebook, with the ability to select the audience to whom the upload will be visible.
- Friends: Find Friends more easily and send requests with the ability to search Friends-of-Friends, view Mutual Friends on another user’s profile, and accept Friend requests directly from the Friends list.
- Trophies: Trophies will be able to be sorted by rarity from the Options menu.
- PlayStation Camera: PlayStation Camera will respond to additional voice commands, enabling users to launch select installed apps.
- Music Unlimited: PS4 users with a subscription to Music Unlimited will be able to share songs by pressing the SHARE button on the DUALSHOCK 4 controller.
Well, what are you waiting for? Go update your various PlayStation devices and enjoy the benefits of the 1.70 update. There’s quite a lot of them.
