Beta testing for the next major PlayStation 4 system update is set to begin this week, Sony Computer Entertainment America announced on Tuesday, and the latest build of the PS4 system software includes some exciting new features for the PlayStation community.
Without a doubt, the introduction of Remote Play support is the biggest new addition to be featured in this week’s PS4 update. According to Sony, PS4 Remote Play won’t be available during the PS4 Update 3.5 beta test; however, fans can expect the console to support Remote Play “soon.” Once introduced, PS4 Remote Play will be compatible with Windows and Mac devices. Sadly, for those who prefer lighter operating systems, there’s no word on Linux support at this time.
The latest PS4 software update, known internally as MUSASHI, will include a handful of new social features for the PlayStation community. PS4 Update 3.5 adds a new Friend Online notification to the growing list of reasons you’re console feels the need to spam system messages during gameplay. The new update also gives players the opportunity to appear offline while signed into PSN and schedule play sessions with friends. The latter should be particularly useful for those who play together on a regular basis. Sony says those registered for user-scheduled events will automatically be added to a party when the time comes, saving you the trouble of rounding up everyone from your favorite gaming group.
This week’s PS4 update will also continue to improve the console’s streaming functionality. Beginning this week, gamers who aren’t fond of Twitch or YouTube will now be able to stream their gameplay to Dailymotion, too. Archival support won’t be available on Day One, as was the case with both of the other streaming services; however, Sony says support for archiving live broadcasts is on the way.
Be sure to check back with iDigitalTimes.com and follow Scott on Twitter for additional PlayStation 4 coverage throughout 2016 and for however long Sony continues to support the latest addition to its console line-up in the years to come.
