Classic Console Themes Return to PS5 from Tomorrow in Latest Firmware Update 1

Update []: Sony has begun rolling out the latest PS5 firmware update, version 25.03-11.20.00. It's about 1.3GB in size.

It's available for us right now in the UK, but may not reach you immediately, as it's being doled out to players gradually in a phased approach.

As announced yesterday, the update makes two additions to the console, namely an audio focus feature that allows you to adjust sound using special presets, and a series of classic console themes coming back from PlayStation's 30th anniversary celebration.

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Here are the official patch notes for PS5's new system software update:

  • We’ve added audio focus, a feature that supports broader accessibility and allows players to hear quiet in-game sounds and voice chat more clearly.
    • When audio focus is turned on, specific frequencies of quieter sounds are amplified, making car engines, footsteps, in-game character voices, and voice chat clearer. Multiple presets are available to enhance specific frequency ranges.
    • To use audio focus, go to Settings > Sound > Volume > Audio Focus and turn on Use Audio Focus.
    • This feature is only available when using headphones.
  • You can now select a design inspired by your favourite PlayStation console generation and apply it to your home screen and other areas.
    • To apply a design, go to the home screen and select Settings > System > Appearance > Appearance and Sound.
  • We've improved system software performance and stability.

Original Story: Sony has announced that the latest firmware update for PS5 will reintroduce the classic console themes.

Created to celebrate PlayStation's 30th anniversary, the PS1, PS2, PS3, and PS4 themed UI were only ever temporary, but due to popular demand, are set to make their return very soon.

On the PS Blog, Sony says PS5's latest system software will be available starting tomorrow, 24th April 2025, and will be "rolled out globally in a phased approach". In other words, you may need to wait a little longer than others, but everyone will eventually receive the update.

Players who want to apply one of these UI skins can find them in Settings > System > Appearance > Appearance and Sound.

It's not known if the PS1 boot-up sequence will also return, or if this is merely referring to the system themes.

The firmware update will also introduce a new feature called audio focus, when using headphones.

Here's how Sony describes it:

Audio focus increases immersion by providing presets to amplify soft sounds to meet your hearing preferences, ensuring a clearer audio experience when using headphones or headsets. This feature supports broader accessibility in audio experiences.

If you turn on audio focus, you will be able to choose from a handful of presets that will make certain aspects of a game's audio easier to hear, such as dialogue, subtle sound effects, or voices in party chat.

The presets are:

  • Boost Low Pitch: Amplify low-frequency sounds like roaring engines and rumbling noises.
  • Boost Voices: Amplify voice chats, character voices, and other middle-frequency sounds.
  • Boost High Pitch: Amplify high-frequency sounds like footsteps and metallic noises.
  • Boost Quiet Sounds: Amplify low-volume sounds in a wide range of frequencies.

You'll also be able to separately adjust the balance in the left and right channels, and choose how strongly the presets are applied.

Again, the update is set to begin rolling out tomorrow, 24th April, and will be coming to players in phases. Are you excited for this PS5 firmware update? Tell us in the comments section below.

[source blog.playstation.com]