Sony has begun rolling out a brand-new system software update for its flagship console, the 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 the PlayStation 5, but also a new feature that lets players turn on read receipts so their friends are well aware when they're being ignored. Firmware version 26.01-12.60.00 is rolling out now worldwide, but Sony says not all users will be able to access the new read receipts feature straight away.
PlayStation 5 owners can likely expect plenty more firmware updates on the horizon, as it is believed Sony may have pushed back the release date of the PS6 to as late as 2029. If this is the case, it means the PS5 will have its life cycle extended beyond the usual eight years that consoles often stick around for. According to a senior analyst at MST Financial, the release date for the next-generation console is likely to be much later than expected. Given that Sony's lead console architect, Mark Cerny, said the PS6 would release in a few years, many anticipated a 2027 or 2028 launch, which would be in line with the usual 8-year life cycle. However, the ongoing RAM crisis could be having a significant impact that may mean the console doesn't see the light of day until 2029 or beyond.
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Latest PS5 Update Adds New Feature
So, while it doesn't look like the PS5 is going anywhere anytime soon, users will be pleased to know that support continues with another new feature for the console. As part of the latest firmware update, which has begun rolling out worldwide on January 28, Sony has added the ability for PS5 owners to turn on read receipts on their messages, which will show friends whether or not their message has been read or completely ignored. Firmware update 26.01-12.60.00 also allows players to jump directly from the Friends Activity widget in their Welcome Hub to the games their friends are playing. And, of course, it wouldn't be a PS5 update without some good old-fashioned stability improvements and system software performance upgrades.
For those who are eager to let their friends know they've ignored their messages, read receipts can be turned on or off by navigating to Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy > View and Customise Your Privacy Settings. Under Communication and multiplayer, set Show read receipts to other players on PS5 and PlayStation App to Allow. However, Sony has noted that this feature won't be available to everyone immediately, as it is being rolled out gradually. So if you update your console to the latest firmware but don't see this new setting, don't be alarmed, 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, merely making more stability improvements and minor performance changes. With the PS6 rumored to be delayed, it's unknown as to whether or not Sony intends to release any major updates for the current-gen console over the next few years, or if they will continue to be more of the same.
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 catalogue, kicking off 2026 in a big way. From Resident Evil Village, which comes just in time for the release of Resident Evil Requiem next month, to Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, PS4 and PS5 users have a whole host of new games to keep themselves busy with.
PS5 Update 26.01-12.60.00 Patch Notes for January 2026
- You can now jump directly from the Friends Activity widget in your Welcome Hub to the games your friends are playing.
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You can now turn on read receipts to show other players when you've read their messages.
- To turn on your read receipts, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy > View and Customise Your Privacy Settings. Under Communication and multiplayer, set Show read receipts to other players on PS5 and PlayStation App to Allow.
- This feature will be rolled out gradually, and some users will be able to use it when the system software update is released.
- We've improved the messages and usability on some screens.
- We've improved system software performance and stability.