This morning, Sony rolled out an update for the PlayStation 3. Yes, you read that correctly; the PlayStation 3 is still getting support nearly 19 years after its debut. While this update isn’t particularly major, it’s crucial for anyone using their console as a Blu-ray player. Known as system software update 4.92, it only requires about 200 megabytes of available space, whether on your internal hard drive or a USB storage device.
Sony provided minimal information regarding this update, simply mentioning that it enhances system performance. However, it serves another important function as well. The update refreshes the Blu-ray player’s encryption key, which is vital for ensuring that your discs comply with copyright regulations. In addition to enhancing film playback, this update may also influence your ability to run certain games.
Updating your PS3 is straightforward. Just connect your console to the internet, then navigate to Settings > System Update > Update via Internet. Follow the on-screen prompts, and you’ll be good to go.
If your PS3 isn’t able to connect to the internet—considering that the console is almost two decades old—you can still perform the update using a USB flash drive. The procedure is slightly more complex, but manageable. Begin by connecting a USB drive formatted to FAT32 to your PC or Mac, then create a folder named “PS3”. Inside this folder, create another folder called “UPDATE”.
Next, download the update file from the official PlayStation website and name it “PS3UPDAT.PUP”. After saving it, insert the USB drive back into your PS3 and select Settings > System Update > Update via Storage Media.
While the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 offer some backward compatibility, many of the standout titles from the PS3 era remain exclusive to that console. The PS3’s unique architecture makes emulation challenging, so titles that haven’t been included in the PlayStation Plus Classics lineup can be difficult to acquire.
