PS4 system software update 8.00: new changes and features
The PS4 software update is annoying some users with errors blocking friends lists, the system running slower and messages saying conversations may be recorded.
Sony released its latest software update 8.00 for the PS4 in the run up to the launch of the PS5. However, shortly after the launch some players began to experiment issues when trying to access their Friends lists, while other players have experienced slower functioning of the game console.
Users have also reported receiving Error WS-44369-6 or WS 36770-3 both of which codes are helpfully still unexplained. Some users have found a workaround but currently there is no fix for these problems. You'll find a plethora of recommendations online to hold off installing the update until a hot fix can be put out by Sony.
A message notifying players that "voice chats may be recorded" further upset some users who downloaded the update and caused a furor on twitter. Sony has informed that this feature will be part of the PS5 system, users of a PS4 system that take part in a chat with a PS5 user (post-launch) may be recorded for moderation. Those conversations can then be sent to Sony Interactive Entertainment.
- Simplified parental control
- Enhanced 2-step verification
- Expanded collection of avatars
- Renaming of Remote Play app
- Linking of Party and Messages
- Easier access to Mute all Mics
- Removal of Events Creation and Private Community Creation
New security on the PS4
Two of the key feature changes are to improve security, a simplified parental control and an enhanced 2-step verification to allow for access to third-party apps. The simplified parental controls merge the “Communicating with Other Players” and “Viewing Content Created by other Players” into one setting “Communication and User Generated Content.” This will make it easier for parents to understand and apply to their children.
This feature will now allow children to ask parents for permission in specific games via a send request button. This will communicate the request via email to the parent so that they may choose whether or not to make an exception for that game.
The 2-step verification feature in the update allows for the use of third-party authenticator apps when signing in across PS4, mobile and web. Players can choose to use PSN (PlayStation Network) in Authy or Google Authenticator but can still choose SMS.
More avatar choice
Players will have an expanded collection of avatars which they can use on their profile. Sony featured some of the games that the new avatars will come from such as Bloodborne, Journey, Ghost of Tsushima, God of War, The Last of Us Part II, The Last of Us Remastered, Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End.
Getting ready for PS5
In the lead up to the release of the PS5 in November some features are designed to streamline between the two systems. Gone is the PS4 Remote Play app renamed PS Remote Play app. Players will be able to connect their mobile or computer through the PSN to access the feature.
Another modification is the linking of the Party and Messages apps with changes to the User Interface. Both will now use the same “Groups” of players for Party voice chats and message exchanges. Users of the PS5 will have the option to record Party chats and submit them to Sony Interactive Entertainment in an attempt to moderate language used during chats.
However, avoiding unflattering language has been made easier with an option to “Mute all Microphones” in the Quick Menu.
Finally, Sony is removing the option to create Events or access existing Events created by other users. Likewise, the ability to create private Communities with the Communities app on the PS4 will be eliminated, but existing private communities will still be accessible.