A new firmware update has begun rolling out for PS5 consoles, and the big surprise is that it doesn’t add more system stability. Version 26.03-13.20.00 brings more of your mom’s favorite WhatsApp language to the console, as you can now use an expanded selection of emojis as message reactions. On top of that, Sony says it also added improvements to messages on “some” screens.
PS5 Version 26.03-13.20.00 Update Notes
- We’ve added more emojis that you can use for message reactions
- We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens
And that’s it–no system stability notes or any other significant updates, just more emojis and better messages. Previous firmware updates introduced more substantial upgrades to PS5 consoles, like an enhanced version of PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution for the PS5 Pro, a new Showcase Mode, and improved system software performance.
Back in January, the Version 26.01-12.60.00 update also introduced the usual round of stability enhancements alongside a few extra improvements to friend widgets, general usability, and messages.
The new firmware comes at a time when PS5 console prices have gone up multiple times, and Sony did see a spike in sales as people raced to avoid the recent April 2 price hikes. A perfect storm of turbulent market conditions alongside ongoing chip and memory shortages–fueled in part by companies ramping up investment in AI–has been blamed. Meanwhile, PS5 owners do have a lot to look forward to when it comes to new releases, as the next big exclusive for the console is Housemarque’s Saros.
The third-person sci-fi roguelike from the studio behind Returnal looks like arcade-inspired bullet-hell fun, and players can also experience some “very special haptics” with the DualSense controller when they play it.
