Sony’s latest PS5 update can help protect controller batteries

Sony has released a batch of features in its latest PlayStation 5 system update, including support for adaptive controller charging, party link sharing, and a new widget hub. The adaptive charging feature, which monitors and automatically adjusts the power supplied when controllers are connected to the console’s USB ports, is being released globally starting today — but only for the latest PS5 models.

In its announcement, Sony says adaptive charging is only available on the PS5 Slim and its upcoming $700 PS5 Pro. The feature will work on PS5-era DualSense and DualSense Edge wireless controllers, alongside PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers, and the Access adaptive controller kit. Charging is adjusted based on the controller’s current battery levels, which can help save power and extend battery life. If a controller isn’t connected, the console will cut power to the USB port shortly after initiating rest mode.

A new “Welcome hub” is also being released that allows PS5 users to customize their home screen widgets to monitor things like console storage, accessory battery levels, and friends lists. Sony says this is a reimagined version of the Explore tab that was only available in the US, and will be available to “select players” in that region starting today, before rolling out globally in the coming weeks.

Other updates arriving today include the ability to create personalized 3D audio profiles for your headphones or earbuds, and adjustable Remote Play settings to help manage access permissions per individual user. Aside from the adaptive charging update, all of the new features announced today will be available on every PS5 model.

Sony is also expanding party voice chat invitations so they can be shared across messaging and social media apps, allowing users to chat with players who aren’t on their friends lists. This will roll out in the coming weeks, alongside a PlayStation App update that will enable users to share party links from mobile devices.