Sony has started rolling out a brand new system software update for its flagship console PlayStation 5. The latest firmware update is the first to be released in 2026, and not only includes the usual stability and performance improvements for PlayStation 5, but also includes a new feature that lets players turn on read receipts so their friends know better when they've been ignored. Firmware versions 26.01-12.60.00 are rolling out globally now, but Sony says that not all users will be able to access the new read receipts directly.
PlayStation 5 owners can expect several firmware updates on the horizon, as Sony may have pushed back the PS6's release date to 2029. If that's the case, it means the PS5 will extend its life cycle beyond the usual eight years that consoles usually stay around. According to a senior analyst at MST Financial, the release date for the next-generation console is likely to be much later than expected. Mark Cerny, Sony's chief console architect, said the PS6 would be released in a few years, with many expecting a 2027 or 2028 launch, which would align with a typical 8-year life cycle. However, the ongoing RAM crisis could have a significant impact that could mean the console won't see the light of day until 2029 or beyond.
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PlayStation 5 owners should check the Promotions tab of their email inboxes, as Sony is currently sending out some targeted deals.
The latest PS5 update adds a new feature
So, while it doesn't look like the PS5 is going anywhere anytime soon, users will be happy to know that support for the console continues with another new feature. As part of the latest firmware update, which began rolling out globally on January 28, Sony added the ability for PS5 owners to turn on read receipts on their messages, which will show friends that their message has been read or ignored entirely. Firmware update 26.01-12.60.00 allows players to jump directly into games their friends are playing from the Friends Activity widget in their Welcome Hub. And, of course, it wouldn't be a PS5 update without some good old-fashioned stability improvements and system software performance upgrades.
For those eager to tell their friends that they've ignored your messages, visit Settings > Users & Accounts > Privacy > View and customize your privacy settings. Under Communication and Multiplayer, show read receipts to allow other players on the PS5 and PlayStation app. However, Sony mentions that the feature won't be available to everyone immediately, as it's being rolled out gradually. So if you've updated your console to the latest firmware but don't see this new setting, don't panic, you'll get it eventually.
It's been a while since Sony released a significant update for the PS5, with the last major change coming back in November when the PlayStation 5's welcome hub received some new widgets and themes. Another software patch then went live in December, with only more stability improvements and minor performance changes. With the PS6 rumored to be delayed, it's unknown if Sony plans to release any major updates for the current-gen console over the next few years, or if they'll continue as usual.
Thankfully, it's already shaping up to be a big year for PlayStation Plus subscribers. Earlier this month, nine new games were added to the PS Plus Extra and Premium catalog, kicking off 2026 in a big way. from Resident Evil VillageWhich comes in time for release Resident Evil requests Next month, who Like the Dragon: Eternal WealthPS4 and PS5 users have a whole host of new games to keep themselves busy.
PS5 Update 26.01-12.60.00 Patch Notes for January 2026
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You can now access the games your friends are playing from the Friends Activity widget in your Welcome Hub.
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You can now turn on read receipts to show other players when you've read their messages.
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To activate your read receipts, go to settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy > View and customize your privacy settings. under Communication and multiplayerSet Show read receipts to other players on PS5 and the PlayStation app who give permission.
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This feature will be rolled out gradually, and some users will be able to use it when the system software update is released.
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We've improved messages and usability on some screens.
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We have improved system software performance and stability.
