The next big PS3 update hits tomorrow, bringing with it a slew of new functionality to Sony's big black console. At the top of the list (at least where I am concerned) is upscaling PlayStation and PS2 games as well as DVDs to full 1080p resolution. This could very well mean that my beloved PS2 could finally be hitting the closet.

Also included is Remote Play via the internet, allowing users to connect their PSP to their PS3 from anywhere in the world via broadband internet connection for some odd reason. Can't say I'd find this particularly useful.

Then there is support for streaming media from DLNA3 enabled devices (computers, laptops, etc.) directly to your PS3, which is of course nifty except I have a PC hooked up to my television already. Oh, and you can print photos from your PS3 to certain Epson printers, but odds are if you have an Epson printer you have a PC you print from anyway.

Despite the fact that I've got most of this covered, it really is a nice chunk of functionality Sony is adding to their machine with 1.80. Hit the jump for the press release, or simply wait til tomorrow and see for yourself. Michael Fahey

PS3 Firmware Version 1.80 Announced

Latest PLAYSTATION 3 Firmware Update Provides PlayStation, PlayStation 2 and DVD Upscaling Remote Play on PSP (PlayStation Portable) via the Internet and DLNA transfer of media content also enabled

London, 24 May 2007 - Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) announced today availability of the latest version of the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) firmware. Version 1.80 features upscaling of PlayStation® and PlayStation 2 games, and DVD movies up to full 1080p HD resolution when viewed on a compatible HD TV set.

The capability to upscale DVDs to HD quality is a feature normally only associated with top range DVD players, and its inclusion in the latest firmware upgrade now allows PS3 owners with an existing DVD collection to dramatically enhance the viewing pleasure of their DVD collection when viewed through a compatible HD TV set1. Not only can DVD movies be enhanced to full 1080p HD quality but so too will PlayStation 2 and PlayStation games be upscaled to provide much improved gaming pleasure.

In a comprehensive update to PS3's already impressive capabilities, Version 1.80 also allows users to enjoy Remote Play on their PSP across the internet, allowing them to access their PS3 anywhere in the world where a broadband internet connection is available2.

Version 1.80 also allows users on a home network to seamlessly view and play rich media content such as images, music and video on their PS3, that is stored on their DLNA3 enabled devices such as PCs and laptops elsewhere in the house, reinforcing PS3's credentials as a home entertainment hub that truly deserves pride of place in the Living Room.

A host of other enhancements include the ability to print photo images stored on PS3's hard disk or inserted storage media to a selection of Epson printers.

PS3 owners will be able to upgrade their PS3 with the latest Version 1.80 firmware from 24th May 2007.

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