PS5's September 2026 Console Update Adds Widget That May Be a Game Changer

A new PS5 system software update went live on September 16, bringing a new widget to the Welcome Hub that shows users which PS5 titles are popular in a given region. The PS5 system update is now available in the US and Canada, with a gradual rollout throughout the globe.

PlayStation periodically releases firmware updates to ensure system stability and security as time goes on. Some updates also include new features that players can utilize on their PlayStation console, such as new widgets or wallpapers for the Welcome Hub. The PS5 system update released in late July 2026 was a case of the latter. Sony stated that messages and usability on some screens were improved in the July update, but the company did not delve into any further details about these changes.

PS5's Latest Update Adds a Nifty Trending Games Widget

After an August beta test period, some new features are now available for PlayStation users to peruse. The update introduced the "Community Activity" widget to the Welcome Hub. The widget shows which PS5 games are trending within a user's home region, along with the 10 most popular PS5 games in a week. As of this writing, Fortnite, Minecraft, and Grand Theft Auto 5 topped the weekly PS5 charts in the US, while games like NHL 27 and Teardown were trending titles. The new update also introduced an option that will display the PSN username of whoever is speaking in a voice chat. The name display's position can also be adjusted. Users must connect to the Internet and download PS5 system update version 26.06-14.00.00 onto their console to use these new features.

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The September PS5 update also made a change that only PS5 Pro users will see. The Enhance PSSR Image Quality option on PS5 Pro is now automatically active by default. Additionally, any game that supports the previous iteration of PlayStation's upscaling technology will work with the enhanced PSSR option. Users can turn this off within the Video Output menu in the system's Settings. An option to turn off Bluetooth functionality across the entire PS5 console has been added, which will also disable HDMI Device Link and rest mode. Sony cautioned that turning off Bluetooth should only be used at esports venues as a way to manage controller connections during an event.

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The new console update came amid a busy week for PlayStation gamers, as Marvel's Wolverine hit store shelves just one day beforehand. As the latest title by Insomniac Games, Wolverine is a gritty action game featuring the titular antihero of Marvel’s X-Men comics. However, reception to the latest PS5 exclusive has been mixed, with criticism pointed at the game's combat depth and navigation mechanics. Insomniac stated it would remain receptive to player feedback, though it is unclear what post-launch changes the studio has planned.

However, the current news cycle has been far from rosy for Sony. The company's ongoing push toward digital exclusivity led some gamers to protest the decision. In response, PlayStation doubled down by sending an email that stated all digital games on its platform were a license that did not grant users individual ownership of a game.

PS5 System Software Version 26.06-14.00.00 Update Notes (September 16, 2026)

• We've turned on Enhance PSSR Image Quality as a default setting. When you update the system software, this setting automatically turns on. When you enable this feature, enhanced PSSR is used even for games that support the previous version of PSSR, so you can enjoy a sharper and clearer visual experience.
  • To turn off this setting, go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Enhance PSSR Image Quality.
  • This feature is available only on PS5 Pro.
• You can now see who’s speaking while you’re in a voice chat.
  • To show the speaker indicator, go to the voice chat card in the control center. Select More > Display Who’s Speaking and turn on Display Names.
  • To choose where the speaker indicator appears on your screen, select Position.
• We’ve added the Community Activity widget to your Welcome Hub. You can switch between the following views.
  • Trending Now displays ten multiplayer games or multiplayer modes that are surging in popularity. Look here for new game releases or games with major content updates.
  • Top 10 displays the ten most popular games in the last week for your country or region. Look here to see what games have a large community of players you can join.
• We’ve changed the following features for PS5 consoles and PS5 Pro consoles in certain countries or regions.
  • If you go to Settings > Accessories > General > Advanced Settings and select Turn Off Bluetooth, your console does not enter rest mode and HDMI Device Link does not function.
  • The Turn Off Bluetooth function is for managing controller connections at esports venues and similar locations. Do not use this feature for any other purpose.
• We've improved system software performance and stability.

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