While Sony has provided instructions on how users can upgrade the internal hard drive inside the various models of PlayStation 4, the ability to connect an external hard drive to the console to download and install games and applications has been notably absent. The Xbox One has had this capability for over two years but the PS4 has only been able to use external hard drives for backups and archives.
Now, that is all set to change in PS4 System Software Update 4.50, which will enable owners to plug in a USB 3.0 hard drive into their console to store additional content. Of particular interest will be the maximum compatible drive capacity which has been stated as being a generous 8TB, while drive contents will be manageable via the settings menu. However, gamers should note that their save files will continue to be stored on the internal hard drive.
Other features that will make their debut in the System Software Update 4.50 include:
- Custom wallpapers: Set your favorite in-game screenshot as the home screen wallpaper
- Quick menu refresh: The Quick Menu will now cover less of the onscreen gameplay while providing easy access to Party features
- Simplified notification list: A single streamlined list of notifications will supersede the existing tabbed presentation and provide an easier way to review information "at-a-glance"
- Direct posting into the Activity Feed
- 3D Blu-ray playback on PlayStation VR
Those interested in giving the above features a try ahead of the official release can register to join the beta test, but be quick before registrations close.
Source: PlayStation Blog via Polygon