Optional software update coming for the PS3

A NEW system software update is on its way to the PS3 - except this time, it is optional.

The PS3 will receive its next system software update shortly – v. 3.15.

This is an optional update, and it enables existing PS3 owners who purchase a new PS3 system (perhaps as a second unit for the household) to transfer their content from their current PS3 to the new system. Content such as games, game save data, and videos downloaded from PlayStation Network can be transferred to the new PS3 system and deleted from the current PS3 system. Other content, including personal media files (photos, music, videos), can be copied onto the new PS3 and remain on the current PS3 system.

Data Transfer Utility Explained:

1. Turn both the current PS3 (A) and new PS3 (B) on and connect them with a LAN cable; PS3 (A) should be connected to the TV. Please note, firmware (v3.15) must be installed on both systems.

2. On the XMB of PS3 (A), scroll to the Settings category and select [System Settings] and then [Data Transfer Utility]

3. Follow the instructions on-screen and transfer data

4. After transferring the data, follow the instructions on-screen, and then connect PS3 (B) to the TV to view the XMB

5. If content that was downloaded from PlayStation Store was transferred as part of this operation, you must activate PS3 (B) before you can use the data. Log in to the PS3 system as the user who owns the content, and then select (PlayStation Network) > (Account Management) > (System Activation) to activate the system.

More details on Data Transfer Utility will be available here once the firmware updat

Facebook IS coming to the PS3

IN THE latest update on the Playstation Blog, Sony has officially announced details for Facebook integration in the new Firmware 3.10 update for the Playstation 3.

With Facebook integration users can link theirPlaystation Network account to their Facebook account and have it updated whenever Trophies or Store activity is happening.

Other features include:

• The Photo category on the XMB is revamped to make it easier to see more of your photos stored on the PS3
• The PSN Friends List has been modified based on feedback they received after update 3.00. Additionally, you can now choose a colour for your PSN ID on the XMB.

XMB chat coming to the PS3? Let's hope so!

IF THE rumour mill is to be believed, joyous days are ahead for all those PS3 gamers currently suffering in silence.
XMB chat is on its way.

It appears that a Naughty Dog staffer posted a message on the US Sony PlayStation forum, saying that XMB chat was on its way in the next Sony PS3 firmware update.

Anyone who has any interest in online gaming will now how frustrating it currently is that you can chat to someone while out of a game, but then if you want to both go into a game, you have to leave chat first, join a game with your friend (if you are that lucky) and then try and chat in game.

If this works as it is supposed to, it will mean you can see your buddy online, both chat away, then join a game together - without any messing logging out.

If this does happen, then Sony may finally conquer the online gaming market - and catch up on the Xbox 360, whose users have been doing this for years.

Here's hoping....