After much anticipation and waiting, Sony has released a new PlayStation 5 update, bringing Discord voice integration to the flagship console.
The latest PS5 update brings the popular multi-platform communications app to the traditionally “exclusive” line of gaming consoles by Sony. It’s worth noting that Microsoft already got the jump on Sony after launching Discord support for Xbox consoles last year.
Unfortunately, Discord works on both the PS5 and the Xbox Series S/X the same way, at least initially. This means you can’t use your PS5 to access Discord servers without using a PC or a mobile device like a tablet or a smartphone to transfer calls. Microsoft eventually found a way around this, so we’re hoping it won’t take Sony too long to do the same.
If it’s any consolation, Sony made sure that the Discord integration on the PS5 is sleek. After you make a call, it will stay on your PS5 dashboard until it’s terminated. Discord on the PS5 only supports voice calls in the meantime.
Integrating Discord with the PlayStation 5 is a boon for multiplayer games, especially those that support crossplay. This will make it easier for PS5 players to chat with PC and Xbox Series S/X gamers without using often-unreliable in-game chatting capabilities.
On top of the Discord integration, the latest PS5 update also improves the 1440p update, expanding it to support Variable Refresh Rate on the said resolution. Sony claims that more HDM devices and modes now support 1440p. Sony also added more functionality to the voice command support on the PS5. Specifically, PS5 owners in the UK and the US can just say “Hey PlayStation, capture that!” if they want to save a gameplay clip.
Finally, Sony made several improvements to the share screen feature and party chats as well as making access to saved PS4 data on the PS5 more convenient and allowing data and game transfers between PS5 consoles on local LAN or Wi-Fi connections.
In other news, Sony is reportedly planning a much larger PlayStation Showcase before E3 2023.
