PS5 Update Drops For Some Users, Makes Change Nobody Asked For

Sony has dropped a new update for PS5, making some small improvements to the console’s interface and usability.

The PlayStation 5 is now just over five years old, but even in that amount of time, Sony is still finding ways to update and improve the console to result in a better experience for users.

Many of these updates end up with just making some small tweaks, such as stability improvements and compatibility support. Some, however, can introduce new features.

To finish off February 2026, Sony has released a brand new update in beta which adds a new change to the console’s usability.

However, I’m not sure if it’s something that many users have been asking for.

The new patch, which is available from this week, adds support for Unicode 17.0 emojis to be used in messages with other users. I’m not sure who asked for this, but I guess it’s something nonetheless.

PlayStation 5, Sony

Patch Notes For PS5 Beta Update 23 February, 2026

Here are the full patch notes for the 23 February update beta for PS5 and PS5 Pro users:

• Unicode 17.0 emojis are now supported. You can use them in your messages.
• We've improved the messages and usability on some screens.
• We've improved system software performance and stability

It’s worth noting that this update is currently only available in beta for PS5 and PS5 Pro consoles, and the full update coming for everyone should be expected in March.

“Do people use emojis enough to warrant beta testing?” wrote one user on Reddit reacting to the new update.

“I highly doubt it,” replied another. “I use the PSN chat on my phone and PSN a good bit to chat with friends. I’ve never really thought or cared to use emojis. I just got my invite, but was sad to see no PSSR 2 testing. My guess is to test overlays, UI and such.”

“A beta just to test emojis and stability, holy s***,” another exclaimed.

As is usually the case with a beta date, expect that some issues may arise as a result of being on a test version of the PS5’s software. Be sure to back up any important data before downloading it, as it may become compromised as a result.

It's worth checking out the thread linked above if you want access to the beta. Sony is handing out codes to download the beta right now, and many users are sharing these codes in the thread.