PS3 firmware update ver. 1.80

The latest update for the Sony PlayStation3 console firmware was released on May 24, 2007, bringing the version up to 1.80. PS3 updates can be downloaded through the PS3 (connected to the web, of course), downloaded via an external media source (eg. Flash drive) or from a recently released game disc.

In this latest release, a new “Search for Media Servers” icon was added to every media menu column, video display was improved and a printing feature was added.

Here are all the new features added in ver. 1.80 as indicated on the Sony site:

DLNA Media Server functionality - This is the biggest firmware addition. You can now play media – images, music and videos – stored on a personal computer or DVR over a network. compatible devices must be running either Sony Room Link, Microsoft Windows XP, or Microsoft Windows Vista with Windows Media Player 11 installed. (Now it’s a fight, Xbox 360).

Upscaling game or DVD output – Basically, content recorded in SD (standard definition) resolution, or 480p/480i, can now be displayed in HD resolution, or 1080p, 1080i and 720p. This feature can be activated through the Settings section. You are also able to activate smoothing for PS2 games.

Copying saved data to a memory card – This feature already existed, but Sony is promoting it as new. You can copy game save data from PS1 or PS2 games cards to the PS3′s hard drive using an external (hardware) adapter. Only problem is that the data stays in PS2 mummery card sized chunks (or, if you have an older PS1 card, smaller card size chunks). It creates a virtual memory card on the hard drive, which is nice and makes for faster saves. Once you transfer all your game save files over to the PS3 and retire your SP2, might as well return the adapter or, better yet, give it to a friend. You can also move copy-prohibited saved data to the PS3.

Using remote play outside the home (via the Internet) - Although the multimedia serving upgrade is the biggest addition, this may be the coolest. You can connect to your PS3 with your PSP through the internet. To use remote play from outside your home, the PS3 system must be set in remote play connection standby mode and the PSP must be running firmware version 3.50 (released late this month as well) or better. You must also have an active Playstation Network account.

BD 1080p 24 Hz Output (HDMI) – This has been added as an option in BD/DVD Settings under Settings. it can be set to auto detect the TV.

RGB Full Range (HDMI) - This has also been added as an option in Display Settings to help improve video quality for TVs that support full range RBG.

Y Pb/Cb Pr/Cr Super-White (HDMI) - This has been added as an option in Display Settings so a super-white signal can now be output when playing Blu-ray Discs (BDs), DVDs or AVCHD discs.

Bitmapping (Super Audio CD) - You can adjust settings for the audio output of Super Audio CDs in Music Settings.

Test Camera Settings - You can test the image from a USB camera that is connected via USB cable and even adjust the Flicker settings.

Printer Settings - You can now also print to a USB printer connected to the PS3.

Editing CD Information – This has been turned on, letting you manually change track and album names.

Slideshow – They added a new slideshow pattern Wee.

Download Management – This has been tweaked to allow more options: Pause All, Resume All, Status, Pause/Resume and Cancel.

Friends - You can now display a photo during voice and video chats.

Read [Next-Gen] Site [Sony PS3]