PS5 System Software Update 26.01-12.60.00—Stability Improvements and New Features

A brand-new system software update for the PlayStation 5 has started to be sent out by Sony. It may not be the most exciting patch in recent memory, but it does bring a few useful improvements along with the usual promise of better speed and stability. The update, version 26.01-12.60, is being rolled out gradually starting today, so not all PlayStation 5 owners will see it right away.

System software speed and stability improvements are discussed in the official notes. This is a phrase that longtime PlayStation users are familiar with. The details are still not clear, but these updates usually focus on making background tasks run more smoothly and making sure the console keeps working well as new features are added.

Sony double down's with this new update.

System software speed and stability improvements are discussed in the official notes. This is a phrase that longtime PlayStation users are familiar with. The details are still not clear, but these updates usually focus on making background tasks run more smoothly and making sure the console keeps working well as new features are added.

Along with making the system more stable, the update also makes small but important changes to how it can be used. Sony has changed the way messages and menus work on some screens to make the PS5's user interface feel more unified and easy to use. The changes aren't a full overhaul, but they are part of a larger effort to make it easier for players to use their console every day.

One change that stands out is how players can now connect with their friends. As of now, users can go straight from the Friends Activity window in the Welcome Hub to the games their friends are playing. It's a small improvement to quality of life, but it strengthens the PS5's social environment and makes it easier to join multiplayer games without having to go through menus.

Update with modern touches.

Read receipts for PlayStation messages are another new feature that comes with this system software update. Users can choose to use this setting to let other players know when their messages have been read, similar to how popular texting apps do it. This could be a good option for players who want to be clear or just feel like they're not being heard.

Players can turn on read receipts by going to Settings, then Users and Accounts, then Privacy, and finally View and Customize Your Privacy Settings. Users can then turn on "Show Read Receipts to Other Players on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation App" under "Communication and Multiplayer." Sony has said that this function will be added gradually, so after installing the update, it might not be available right away for everyone.

Like many other social tools that you can choose not to use, read receipts are likely to divide people. Some players will like how clear contact is now, while others might want to turn this feature off. Sony is thankfully giving users full power over whether they want to enable it or not, so it will stay a choice and not a requirement.

This PS5 update isn't meant to make news.

but it does show that Sony is still committed to making the platform better. With improvements to stability, UI polish, and optional messaging features, the update continues a theme of making small changes that make a big difference.