Sony released a new update for the PS3’s system software on March 5, 2025. Version 4.92 will improve system performance.
The PlayStation 3 launched back in 2006, however, it still receives periodic updates. Sony appears to have settled into a pattern of updating the PS3’s system software about once a year around the end of February/beginning of March. Versions 4.90 and 4.91 were released on February 28, 2023 and February 27, 2024, respectively. Both of these focused on improving system performance.
Version 4.92 also comes with the common, vague “This system software update improves system performance” patch note, which will be familiar to all PS3 owners past and present. However, this update also renews the PS3 console’s Blu-ray encryption key, meaning that this system software update is necessary if you still want to enjoy the PS3’s ability to play Blu-ray discs.
Despite being launched 19 years ago, the PS3 still retains some popularity. Back in 2021, Sony announced it would be closing down the PS3 online store but reversed its decision after strong backlash from the community. The PS3 store is still usable today, however for security reasons, Sony has removed the ability to pay by credit card and PayPal, so users must top up their wallet with gift cards instead.
Part of the PS3’s enduring appeal is its ability to play older games. Even though PS Plus Premium level subscribers can stream select legacy titles on their PS4s and PS5s, PlayStation 3’s online store previously offered a wide selection of retro PlayStation games that could be downloaded to your hard drive (although these have since been removed from the store, they are still playable if you purchased them before). All editions of the PS3 can play physical PS1 discs, with sought-after “fat” early PS3’s having PS2 disc backward compatibility too. There are also many PS3 titles that have yet to be made available on modern consoles, encouraging PS3 owners to boot up their console for nostalgia kicks.
