Sony has begun rolling out a brand-new system software update for its flagship console, the PlayStation 5. The latest firmware update is the first to be released in 2026, and not only includes the usual stability and performance improvements for the PlayStation 5, but also a new feature that lets players turn on read receipts so their friends are well aware when they're being ignored. Firmware version 26.01-12.60.00 is rolling out now worldwide, but Sony says not all users will be able to access the new read receipts feature straight away.
PlayStation 5 owners can likely expect plenty more firmware updates on the horizon, as it is believed Sony may have pushed back the release date of the PS6 to as late as 2029. If this is the case, it means the PS5 will have its life cycle extended beyond the usual eight years that consoles often stick around for. According to a senior analyst at MST Financial, the release date for the next-generation console is likely to be much later than expected. Given that Sony's lead console architect, Mark Cerny, said the PS6 would release in a few years, many anticipated a 2027 or 2028 launch, which...
