PlayStation app refresh adds voice chat, messages integration
The app starts rolling out Wednesday on iOS and Android.
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The PlayStation App has been revamped.
Sony Interactive Entertainment on Wednesday unveiled the updated PlayStation app, which includes a new layout, voice chat support and messages integration. The upgraded app is designed to "enhance your gaming experiences on both PS4 and PS5," said a blog post about the update.
The PlayStation App will start rolling out globally through updates on iOS and Android devices starting Wednesday. Players who want to access the updated app but don't yet have it installed will need an account for the PlayStation Network, and can sign up for that through the PlayStation site.
Key updates to the app include a sleeker interface, as well as a new home screen showing what friends are playing and allowing users to access details on recently played games . The PS Messages app feature is now integrated into the new PS App, so players can message friends from one place. Since PS Messages won't be available as a standalone app anymore, existing messages and threads will move over to the PS App.
Users can also create party groups and voice chat with up to 15 other people. A new native PS Store feature lets customers quickly browse and shop, allowing them to remotely download games and add-ons to their PS4 and PS5. And when the PS5 becomes available, users can remotely launch games, manage console storage and sign in to PS5 from the PS App.
The release of the PlayStation 5, which starts at $400 and begins shipping Nov. 12, has long been awaited. Some of the games that players will be able to buy on launch day include Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Assassin's Creed Valhalla.