PS3 Firmware Upgrade Due

In a post on its new Playstation.Blog Tuesday, Sony's Eric Lempel, director of PlayStation Network Operations, announced the impending release of system software update version 1.82 for the PlayStation 3 console. Scheduled for release "in the next few days", this update will include coding to allow the PS3 to play ACV High Profile files, known more commonly for their codecs (H.264/MPEG-4), which have gained popularity over the past few years for their ability to deliver high definition media in a compressed format. The High Profile standard is the same used in both Blu-ray and HD DVD technology.

The post also reinforced a promise made after the last firmware update by mentioning that Sony will continue to evaluate and improve PS2 backwards compatibility. Lempel hinted at future update material by noting that his team is working on new audio updates such as the ability for users to select their own background music during games.

The post also made the point that the company has taken notice of the advice given by the blog's readers, and will try to release information about firmware updates at least a few days ahead of their release. This may signal the beginning of a trend by which gamers can expect announcements more often before future firmware releases.