Sony Updates PlayStation 4 and 5 with New Features, Stability Improvements

NEW YORK, NY — Sony Interactive Entertainment announced major system software updates for both its PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles on March 25, 2025. The updates, which are approximately 1.3GB each, introduce new features aimed at improving user experience and system stability.

The PlayStation 5 update, designated as version 25.02-11.00.00, brings significant improvements to activity management. Now, players can fully view streaming activity details on cards, designed to help keep game details under wraps and prevent spoilers. As a response to user feedback, this change allows players quick access to important information without prematurely disclosing game events.

Additionally, the latest update introduces support for Unicode 16.0 emojis, enhancing the communication experience through personal expressions in messages. “This update not only enhances gaming performance but ensures that communication between players is more vibrant and engaging,” a Sony representative stated.

Parental controls have also seen enhancements. For users who set their restriction levels to ‘Late Teens’ or ‘Older’, the default for ‘Communication and User-Generated Content’ will now be set to ‘Restrict’. Existing settings will not be affected and appear as ‘Customize’ for those who had previously adjusted them.

Along with new features, this update emphasizes overall system software improvements, targeting better performance and stability. Players are likely to notice smoother functionality across their gaming experience as a result.

The PlayStation 4 also received an update, version 12.50, albeit with fewer changes. This update primarily focuses on improving message usability and screen interface. “We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens,” the company noted in a post. Sony has made it clear that despite the emergence of the PlayStation 5, it remains committed to supporting its previous-generation consoles, ensuring they receive necessary updates to enhance user experience.

Wesley Yin-Poole, UK News Editor for IGN, highlights the significance of these updates, especially in a competitive gaming landscape. “It’s essential for Sony to continue innovating and providing updates to both current and older systems, ensuring gamers remain satisfied,” said Yin-Poole.

In recent reports, PlayStation has maintained a leading position in the U.S. console market. According to data from Circana, PlayStation 5 sales have outpaced those of the PlayStation 4 by 7% during their respective initial 52 months on the market. This trend underscores Sony’s ongoing success amidst fierce competition.

As part of its commitment to quality and innovation, Sony is poised to evolve its systems with these updates, catering to the needs of a growing gaming community across its platforms.