PS5 Update SHOCK! Read Receipts & a SECRET Feature?!

PS5 Update SHOCK! Read Receipts & a SECRET Feature?!
Tech Product Reviews 28 January 2026

Alright, folks, dust off those PS5 controllers! Sony just dropped the first major system update of the year, and it's packing some pretty interesting additions. We're talking version 26.01-12.60.00, and while the usual "performance improvements" are undoubtedly in there, there are some tangible, player-facing features that caught my eye. Let's dive in.

PS5 Update SHOCK! Read Receipts & a SECRET Feature...

The biggest headline, at least for me, is the ability to jump straight into a game from a friend's activity feed. Now, I'm not always a huge social gamer, but I can absolutely see the appeal. Imagine you're browsing what your buddies are up to, see someone tearing it up in a game you also own, and BAM! Instant co-op opportunity. It definitely lowers the barrier to playing together, and that's a win in my book. It streamlines the whole process, making impromptu gaming sessions a lot easier to pull off. No more endless invites and waiting around – just straight into the action.

Beyond that, Sony hasn't exactly been shouting from the rooftops about the specific nitty-gritty details. We're still waiting on the official patch notes to surface to get the full picture, but based on initial user reports and rumblings online, expect the usual bug fixes and under-the-hood tweaks that make your PS5 run a little smoother. I'm always skeptical of vague "stability improvements," but hey, I'll take it. Every little bit helps, especially after some of the launch-era hiccups we saw.

Now, before all you PS4 faithful start feeling left out, Sony did throw you a bone as well! System software version 13.04 is now live for the older console. Don't get too excited, though. From what we're hearing, it's a pretty minor update, likely focused on those same behind-the-scenes fixes and security patches. No major new features here, folks. But hey, at least Sony hasn't completely forgotten about its last-gen console. My own PS4 still sees occasional use, mostly for older titles I haven't gotten around to repurchasing on the PS5. It's good to know it's still getting some love, even if it's just the bare minimum.

So, there you have it. The first PS5 system update of 2024 is live, bringing a potentially game-changing social feature and the usual round of improvements. Keep an eye out for the full patch notes to get the complete rundown. And PS4 owners, well, at least you got something, right? As always, happy gaming, and let me know in the comments if you spot any significant changes I might have missed!

M
Editor
Michelle Young

Tech reviewer and journalist testing and reviewing the latest gadgets.

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