Video: Check out the new PS3 firmware

News that firmware version 2.0 ofPlayStation 3’s software will be available for download tomorrow is currently the hottest topic of conversation on many a gaming forum, includingours. However, if you can’t wait for another 24 hours to see what it looks like, you canhit play on the video below for a sneak peek.

Version 2.0 features the ability to turn your PS3 on and off remotely, using a PSP and also adds the option to create custom playlists for both pictures and sound files, as well as a funky new 'air paint' theme.

Missing from the update is the highly anticipated in-game XMB access and the ability to play your custom playlist while enjoying a quick thrash around the tracks of Motorstom or enjoying a kick about in PES 2008. But we're sure those features aren't too far away in afuture update.

Take a look at the entire Sonypress release below.

Version 2.00 features the ability to turn a PS3 system on and off remotely, using a PSP(PlayStation Portable) system via the Remote Play(1) function, allowing for a truly mobile partnership between the two systems.

Building on the success and potential of the Remote Play functionality, Version 2.00 will cement the partnership between PS3 and PSP and create a truly global experience.With the ability to turn your PS3 on and off from Wi-fi connection, there is now the opportunity to listen to the music, look at the photos and watch the videos saved on the PS3 Hard Disk Drive, anywhere in the world.

To further enhance the PS3 offering, Version 2.00 allows for the creation of personalised playlists in both the music and photo sections.This simple to use function gives users an opportunity to create unlimited music playlists for all occasions, as well as sharing favourite photos in glorious high definition.

Continuing with the idea of a personalised PS3, Version 2.00 allows for customisation of the XMB (XrossMediaBar) menu screen. Change the colour and brightness with the greatest of ease or have something completely different by setting a custom theme. With the potential for new backgrounds to become available on PLAYSTATION Network in the future, Version 2.00 truly opens up a whole raft of options.

A host of other enhancements includes the addition of an Information Board on XMB to keep people up to date on the latest PlayStation news, the inclusion of a new PLAYSTATION Network category and logo for easier navigation and Trend Micro Web Security, a free(2), state of the art internet security system, designed to give parents peace of mind.

Notes
1.Use of remote play requires at least PS3 version 1.80 as well as PSP firmware version 3.50.
2.The service will be provided free of charge until the end of April, 2008 on a trial basis. The date and method to switch to a pay service and the price will be announced as soon as a decision is made. For more details, please visit
http://webclassify.trendmicro.com

James Jarvis
Executive Producer, GR Video

Hi I'm James or JJ if you like, I'll answer to both. I'm the Executive producer for GR video which means I've had at least a part in all the hot moving pictures you'll find on the site (even if that part was just saying, yes that's a good video). I also produce the Future Games Show and Golden Joystick Awards. Away from the office you'll either find me playing Fortnite, or walking my dog. I'm better at one than the other, I'll let you decide which.