PS3 Firmware Update 2.5 adds console and controllers power save setting, in-game screenshot capturing and more

PS3 Console with 80GB HDSony announced the PS3 system software update 2.50 will be released today, October 15th, 2008. This latest firmware finally adds an automatic console and controllers power off feature!

Building upon the foundation set by previous firmware upgrades, the 2.50 system software update will refine existing features while also adding new functionality.

New features delivered through PS3 2.50 include:

* Support for the PS3 Official Bluetooth Headset — The upcoming Bluetooth Headset bundled with SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Confrontation in combination with this latest firmware enables High-Quality (HQ) mode, which utilises advanced wireless technologies and the Headset’s dual-microphone design to enable clear and wide-band wireless online voice chat. On top of that, an added on-screen indicator shows battery status, volume level, mute functions, and use of HQ mode. HQ mode greatly improves the voice chat experience in multi-player titles such as Resistance 2, which launches in November.

* Power Save –- PS3 owners will have the option to automatically shut-off their console or controllers after pre-selected periods of inactivity. Go to Settings then Power Save Settings to turn on these features.

* Flash 9 Content — Flash 9 becomes supported on the Internet Browser.

* Video — Video scene search functionality will provide thumbnails to help you find a particular scene in a video more easily. Activating this feature while viewing a video on the PS3 will break the video up into scenes that you can quickly access by pressing the X button. You can break the videos into one, two or five minute intervals. In addition, you can now choose to have all of the videos under the video section of the XMB play in sequence. Go to Settings then Video Settings to turn this option on.

* PlayStation Trophies interface enhancements — This update makes sharing and comparing your trophies with your friends even easier. On 1st part of the profile page you’ll see a symbol under level that represents level and the actual percentage towards the next level along with the existing level meter. The level symbol carries over to the trophy comparison screen where you will now be able to see your level, your friend’s level and the percentage towards the next level for both users along with all of the game by game comparison information you see today. The Trophy system will continue to expand through future firmware updates, catering to the PS3 community and the competitive nature of the more than 12 million registered PlayStation Network users worldwide.

* In-game screenshots capture tool — Laying the groundwork for developers to add capture and sharing options to their games and allowing players to immortalise their favourite gaming moments and share them with friends. This will be supported on a game by game basis. Titles that support the feature will be announced in the future.

* Background Downloading — You now have the option to set the PS3 to turn off automatically after a background download or installation of content has completed. This option is available when you turn off the system from the button under [Users] while content is being downloaded or installed.

* Information Board — The Information Board will be able to include direct links to PlayStation Store, making it easier for PS3 owners to download content that they read about on the Information Board.

* Friend Status — Offline friends on your Friends list will have information below their avatars that will indicate how long it has been since they were last online.

* PlayStation Store — A redeem codes option has been added right on the store to make it easier to redeem your PlayStation Network Cards and promotion codes. In addition, PlayStation Network Sign Up and Account Management have been redesigned.