A new PS5 beta software update has been made available in some regions, enabling users to install their own M.2 SSD storage.
The beta software update is one of the most anticipated for Sony’s new console, as it finally allows owners to expand the machine’s high-speed storage, expanding the limited space to install games. This option will be of particular importance for PS5 Digital owners, who have so far had to make do with the machine’s 670 GB or so of space. Traditional external harddrives can connect to the PS5 and be used to store games, but they must be transferred back to internal storage to be made playable.
The beta software isn’t just for M.2 storage, however, it also includes 3D Audio support for TV speakers and several UX improvements. The new 3D audio options will make use of the DualSense to measure the acoustics of the room your system is set up in. To enable it, you'll need to head to the sound menu of the system settings.
UX improvements include changes to the Control Center. The Friends tab has been updated with better management options, and you can now send messages to friends and parties within the Game Base section. Additional options for control personalization have also been added to the Control Center, and players can also acces a new Trophy Tracker from the menu.
Crucially, the PS5's confusing interface and descriptions for discerning between PS4 and PS5 versions of games have been improved. The different versions will now list their platform in the title, and appear as separate items on the home screen and in the game library.
If you’re looking to install an M.2 SSD to your PS5 (we have a step-by-step guide here), you’ll first need to ensure you’ve approved the beta program on PS5 and downloaded the current system software beta.
How to get the PS5 beta software
© Sony
To get access to PS5 beta software, you first need to register on the PlayStation website. Currently, the beta program is only available in to users over the age of 18 in the following regions:
- United States
- Canada
- Japan
- United Kingdom
- France
- Germany
If you’re in one of those areas, head to the sign up website here and log in to your PSN account. You’ll then need to accept the terms listed and submit your registration.
It’s worth noting that registering for the beta program doesn’t guarantee you’ll get access to each beta version for the PS5. If you are selected, the email address registered with your PSN account will be contacted with details for how to download and install the PS5 beta software on your console.
If you download the PS5 beta software, you’ll also need to make sure you purchase a compatible M.2 SSD, as the PS5 isn’t quite the same as your traditional PC. SSD manufacturer Seagate has already confirmed that their Firecuda 530 SSD is supported by the PS5, with prices as follows:
- 500 GB - $149.99
- 1 TB - $254.99
- 2 TB - $514.99
- 4 TB - $999.99
Expect further manufacturers to follow suit with PS5 compatibility support updates soon.
We don’t know how long the M.2 SSD support will be in beta for the PS5, but it’s a good sign that the software update will be on its way to all versions of the console before too long.
It sounds like Warzone players will soon finally be able to dedicate an entire terabyte of storage to their chosen title’s ever-expanding file size.
