PS3 update will add PlayStation Plus, Facebook integration

Sony's monolithic cell-powered console is getting a new software update via firmware that's planning to bring some significant additions and tweaks to the Playstation 3 user experience--namely, the addition of the subscription-based PlayStation Plus service and a version of Facebook customized for the PS3.

The new firmware update (v3.40) will see the introduction of some highly anticipated and much-hyped additions to the PlayStation 3 user experience, including the debut of Sony's PlayStation Plus premium branch of the PlayStation Network, a network-based Photo Gallery that's fully compatible with Facebook and Picasa Web Album, a Video Editor/Uploader that's fully compatible with both YouTube and Facebook, Five Star Rating Support for downloadable content on the PlayStation Network, and a selection of Power Save Settings to help preserve energy during the console's downtime.

The new update will also include a new Facebook application on the console's XMB that will allow players to post their PlayStation 3 user profiles, Trophies, and PlayStation Network purchases directly to their Facebook accounts.

While past firmware updates haven't been incredibly well received, the implementation of a user-friendly network-based photo gallery, a streamlined video editor, and a plethora of social networking integration features looks to make v3.40 a worthwhile improvement to the PS3 user experience.

SOURCE: PlayStation 3 System Software Update v3.40 Available Soon [PlayStation Blog]