Sony has announced that it is releasing a beta firmware update for PlayStation 5 (PS5), which will improve the speakers and microphone on the DualSense controller. Additionally, the update introduces pointers and emoji reactions to the Share Screen feature.
The beta is only available for testers in select countries (U.S., Canada, Japan, U.K., Germany, and France) and they will receive invitations via email if chosen. It will be available for everyone in the coming months.
The PS5 Beta update brings in much-needed and significant changes which are mentioned below.
DualSense Wireless Controller Sound Enhancements
The update improves the sound features of the DualSense and DualSense Edge wireless controllers by updating their device software. The update introduces speaker audio enhancements to the DualSense controller, enabling it to produce a louder sound, and providing players with a clearer experience of in-game sounds and voice chat audio, as well as improvements to the built-in microphone.
New PS5 beta introduces:
🔉 Enhanced DualSense controller speaker audio
🤫 Improved DualSense controller mic noise cancellation
😲 Share Screen interaction using pointers and emojisFull details at PS Blog: https://t.co/NVAe97GkxT pic.twitter.com/a6i45BmQwY
— PlayStation (@PlayStation) February 6, 2024
Furthermore, the microphone input quality on these controllers has been enhanced through the implementation of a new AI machine-learning model, leading to improved noise cancellation. Users also have the option to adjust the controller speaker volume directly from the control centre if they find the audio to be too loud.
Share Screen Interactions
The PS5 beta update also enables users watching Share Screen in full-screen mode to add pointers and emojis, enhancing interaction with the host. While using this feature, your friends will now be able to use pointers and emoji reactions to interact with your gameplay. In full-screen Share Screen mode, viewers can use a pointer to highlight objects or guide the host more accurately, sending emoji reactions to visually encourage and celebrate gameplay. This default feature can be disabled in Share Screen settings by the host. Both the host and viewer must participate in the beta for this feature during the beta period.
The last addition to the PS5 beta update is the ability to control the brightness of the PS5’s power indicator. Users can select from three options: dim, medium, and bright (default). Unfortunately, you can’t fully disable the power indicator.