Sony has a new PlayStation 5 system software update that focuses on messaging and multiplayer convenience rather than major interface changes. While it’s a relatively small update, it introduces features that are likely to change how players communicate and jump into games with friends.
The update, officially labeled Version 26.01-12.60.00, is rolling out now and adds optional read receipts for messages, faster ways to join friends’ games, and general performance and stability improvements. With the new update, players can choose to let others see when their messages have been opened.
The feature is optional and can be enabled by going to: Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy > View and Customize Your Privacy Settings > Communication and Multiplayer > Show read receipts
Emmanuel Umahi
Sony says the rollout is gradual, so the option may not appear immediately on all consoles or in the PlayStation App. Whether this improves coordination or simply adds social pressure to reply faster is likely to depend on how players use it.
Another useful addition is the ability to launch directly into a game your friend is playing from the Friends Activity widget in your Welcome Hub. Instead of navigating menus or sending invites, you can now jump in instantly, perfect for co-op sessions and spontaneous multiplayer runs.
Sony adds that it’s improved system performance and usability on certain screens, though, as usual, it didn’t go into much detail. Still, smoother menus and fewer hiccups are always welcome.
As with most system updates, Sony says it has improved overall system software performance and usability on certain screens. While no specific details were shared, these changes typically target smoother navigation and fewer system hiccups. The company also released PlayStation 4 system software version 13.04. Unlike the PS5 update, it doesn't introduce new user-facing features and is focused mainly on security updates and backend improvements.
The Takeaway
Sony’s latest PS5 update is a quality-of-life release aimed at making communication and multiplayer access faster and more direct. Read receipts bring PlayStation messaging closer to modern chat apps, while quicker game joining removes friction from playing with friends. It’s a small update, but one that could noticeably change day-to-day PS5 use.
Emmanuel Umahi
