Two of the most popular current-gen consoles are getting updates that will make their users' lives a whole lot easier. While both are coming with updates at the same time, Xbox and PlayStation are providing completely different updates for their corresponding controllers.
PS5 Controller Update
The most significant update the controller is getting is the Discord integration, which is now rolling out across all consoles. This allows players to join servers within the platform through the PlayStation UI, which is a welcome option for those who enjoy cross-play-enabled games.
Previously, PlayStation users are limited to connecting with other players through the PlayStation Network. Not only is Discord now integrated, but they will be able to share their console profiles online as well.
The update also benefits child accounts since they can now link and add third-party services and apps to their account for PSN, which allows them to enjoy benefits and features that make gameplay better.
Such services include Discord voice chat, music streaming for Apple Music and Spotify, as well as broadcasting and sharing gameplay via YouTube and Twitch. Since they are child accounts, new parental controls are added, which lets them manage the accounts with their services and apps.
It's important to note that streaming on Twitch has already been possible even before for standard accounts. Players just need to download the Twitch app on their PS5, link it to their account, and press the share button to select the Broadcast option.
The PULSE Elite wireless headset, PULSE Explore wireless earbuds, and PlayStation Link USB adapter will have better connectivity. With the PULSE Elite wireless headset, specifically, the issue with the power turning off when the audio cable is connected to the audio input jack has been fixed.
Other than that, the update also provides general improvements for the controller and its functions such as the system software performance and stability, along with the messages and usability on some screens.
Xbox Series X|S Controller Update
With Xbox's new update, users can now choose their favorite moving images for dynamic backgrounds as well as the option to use a game's art it fill the background when it's where the toggle is currently on, similar to how the PS5 does with games.
As mentioned in Kotaku, players will also be able to manage their Game Pass subscription easily through the settings menus, which is a convenient feature for those who take a break from gaming often and do not want to pay for a subscription while they're away.
Xbox released a wireless controller firmware update, as well as a feature for managing game data for cloud gaming. PC players will be happy to know that there is a new Game Pass sub navigation for the platform as well.
A mouse and keyboard for cloud gaming are now supported, along with connectivity improvements. This is a nice update for Xbox, especially since its service is more open to cloud gaming across various devices as opposed to its leading competitor.
