New PS5 Update Is Out Now, And It Doesn’t Even Mention Stability
Sony has released PlayStation 5 firmware update version 26.03-13.20.00, a notably lightweight patch that rolled out on April 23. The update introduces expanded emoji options for message reactions on PS5, allowing users to react to messages from other players with a broader selection of emoticons beyond the previously limited options of laughing faces and thumbs up.
Beyond the expanded emoji reactions, the firmware update includes minor improvements to message usability and readability on “some screens” across the console’s user interface. Sony’s official patch notes are extremely brief, reflecting the minimal scope of this update.
The patch stands out primarily for what it doesn’t include: unlike typical PS5 firmware releases, version 26.03-13.20.00 brings no system stability improvements or performance enhancements—a rarity, as PlayStation firmware updates traditionally prioritize security and stability. This is among the least extensive firmware updates Sony has released for a PlayStation console. The minor nature of this patch is unlikely to have any noticeable impact on the vast majority of PS5 users, particularly those who don’t regularly use the console’s messaging features.
This update reflects Sony’s incremental approach to improving the PS5’s user experience and communication capabilities, though the practical benefits for most players remain limited.