Sony has announced a new PlayStation 5 system update, which will roll out globally starting April 24. It mainly brings two new features: audio focus and classic console designs for the PlayStation 5 UI. Both additions were based on player feedback, with the classic console designs inspired by the 30th anniversary celebration that featured a limited-time selection of classic customization options. Those were a huge hit with the community, so Sony decided to bring back the look and feel of the four console designs (from PlayStation through PlayStation 4), allowing players to customize the home screen of their PlayStation 5.
The other major feature of the update is audio focus, which increases immersion by offering presets that amplify soft sounds. This allows players to customize soft sounds to their hearing preferences, delivering a clearer audio experience when using headphones or headsets. When the setting is toggled on, users can choose from various preset options that make it easier to distinguish sounds such as in-game character dialogue, subtle sound effects like footsteps and rustling grass, as well as voices in party chats. Users can find it under Settings > Sound > Volume > Audio Focus.
At launch, there are four preset focus type options:
- 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.
For each preset type, users can set the level of support from Weak, Medium, and Strong. They can also choose to adjust the level of support for Left and Right channels separately. Audio Focus is only available when using headphones connected via USB or analog; it is not supported over HDMI connections through TVs, receivers, or soundbars.
