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Sony launches PS5 System Software Beta Program to let users test console updates

Sony's new PS5 System Software Beta Program will let users test out planned features in upcoming system updates.

TJ Denzer

June 17, 2021 7:20 AM

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The PlayStation 5 is pretty alright, but there’s plenty to be desired about it. We’re still waiting on a few updates that will hopefully unlock its full potential, such as storage upgrades, messaging and community features, and better interactivity with PS4 consoles. However, if you can’t wait for the next official update, Sony is now offering a way to see upcoming features early, although you would be testing them. It introduced sign-ups for the PS5 System Software Beta Program.

Sony announced the PS5 System Software Beta Program in a PlayStation blog post on June 17, 2021. As of this day, players can sign up to take part in a beta program that will allow them to test and submit feedback on work-in-progress features planned for the PS5. If one signs up on the beta program site, they could receive an email if chosen for the program that will allow them to take part in the program. Sony and PlayStation claimed that they will be sharing more in coming weeks about what comes next for the beta program and the next software update.

Sign up for the first PS5 system software beta program: https://t.co/lbwHlsWh9B pic.twitter.com/1lL9ETSPhU

— PlayStation (@PlayStation) June 17, 2021

The PlayStation 5 has been doing pretty good for itself so far in terms of performance. Games specifically made for it look great, load times are reduced to near zero on most titles, and the DualSense controller is arguably one of the best controllers out there, earning our Shacknews Best Gaming Accessory of 2020 award. However, there are still many things to be desired. The PS5 has no messaging system, no themes for background customization, and a very low storage capacity in a field of increasingly large games. It also has an M.2 SSD upgrade port that is currently useless.

With that in mind, if you’re brave enough to jump in feet first to new updates with the PS5 console, the PS5 System Software Beta Program might be up your alley. Otherwise, we should at least be hearing about what’s coming next soon.

TJ Denzer

Senior News Editor

TJ Denzer is a player and writer with a passion for games that has dominated a lifetime. He found his way to the Shacknews roster in late 2019 and has worked his way to Senior News Editor since. Between news coverage, he also aides notably in livestream projects like the indie game-focused Indie-licious, the Shacknews Stimulus Games, and the Shacknews Dump. You can reach him at tj.denzer@shacknews.com and also find him on Twitter @JohnnyChugs.