Exclusive Leak: PS5 Update to Unlock Massive Storage Upgrade for Gamers

Highlights

A PlayStation 5 beta firmware update doubles SSD storage capacity, from 4TB to 8TB.

The PS5 beta program gives users the opportunity to preview upcoming updates, granting early access to new features while also allowing them to offer valuable feedback.

By upgrading to an 8TB M.2 SSD on the PS5, users can effectively eliminate the necessity to frequently clear storage space, thereby addressing a prevalent source of frustration for gamers.

Sony has released a new PlayStation 5 beta firmware update that effectively doubles the maximum capacity of the console's SSD storage. The PS5 beta program, which was introduced in June 2021, gives interested users the opportunity to test upcoming updates and provide feedback. This program is similar to Microsoft's Xbox Insider program, both of which grant console owners exclusive access to system software before it is officially released.

An example of the benefits of being a beta tester is having early access to the March update, which introduced Discord chat functionality to the PS5. Beta testers received access to this update over a month before its official release. The beta program was particularly exciting initially as certain expected features were missing when the console was first launched in November 2020. However, these features have since been added through firmware updates, including support for 1440p resolution and Gamelists that enable users to organize their extensive game library into folders. Beta testers had the privilege of being the first to try out these newly implemented features.

One missing feature during the initial launch of the PS5 was the absence of M.2 SSD support. However, beta users were given the opportunity to experience this highly anticipated update ahead of others. Previously, the maximum capacity for these solid-state drives was 4TB. Nevertheless, a beta software was released on July 31 which increases the storage limit to 8TB. If and when this firmware update becomes accessible to the public, it is expected to be well-received.

The inadequate storage space is an ongoing challenge for console users, particularly as game sizes continue to increase. Many individuals are familiar with the frustration of sifting through their game library and deciding on what to delete in order to make space for a new title. Sony's latest console, in particular, only provides approximately 667GB of usable storage space out of the box, which is considered insufficient for many gamers. Consequently, one of the first actions taken by new owners is to install an M.2 SSD to the PS5. While 4TB typically meets the needs of most people, expanding the capacity to 8TB will effectively eliminate the need to free up space in the future.

The Xbox Series X/S allows for adding up to 2TB of storage using its proprietary expansion slot, which currently supports only Seagate and Western Digital expansion cards. While both consoles are similar in many ways, Sony's decision to allow third-party M.2 SSDs with a read speed of 5500 MB/S for PS5 storage expansion has been highly praised by gamers. This move not only keeps costs down but also ensures that the purchased storage remains useful in future console generations.