PS5 UI Update Adds Classic Themes Back

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The latest PS5 UI update has fans clapping as anniversary themes return here to stay!

Sony’s latest system software lets players alone add classic console-themed appearances.

But what is on offer, and what else does the new load of data add to the console?

PS5 UI Update

Recently, I discussed the 30th anniversary of the PlayStation. To mark this special occasion, Sony incorporated designs reminiscent of vintage PlayStation consoles at no extra cost. This was met with enthusiasm from fans, as it introduced an element of personalization to the otherwise monotonous user interface.

The latest PS5 system software upgrade brings back beloved UI features from the past, alongside a brand-new Audio Focus option. Discover more about it here.

— PlayStation (@PlayStation) April 23, 2025

Initially, it was taken down shortly after its introduction with little explanation provided. Yet, following the most recent PlayStation 5 user interface update, these themes have returned!

Moreover, these options are at no cost and accessible to anyone who has a PlayStation 5. Within the updated user interface of the PS5, you’ll find 5 distinctive PlayStation themes. These themes span across various generations, including the PS1, PS2, PS3, and PS4. Each theme alters the UI design and sounds accordingly.

So if you pick the original PS1 appearance, it will now sound and look like a classic PlayStation.

To incorporate these visuals, just navigate to the settings on your PlayStation 5. In the system category, find ‘Appearance’ and browse through the options available in the drop-down menu. Regardless of which one you select, it will modify your UI sounds, home screen areas, as well as the upper bar.

Although Sony has decided that this time these appearances are here to stay.

Additionally, the PS5 UI update brings a new Audio Focus mode. This tool lets you customize the PS5’s audio settings according to your taste. Now, you can fine-tune the console to emphasize high or low frequencies, balance sound between left and right channels, and more, all to suit your specific audio preferences.

While I appreciate the comprehensive nature of these tools and features, I’m somewhat troubled by the fact that it took the Sony team five years to incorporate them into their system. It seems we’re only receiving themes five years down the line!

Theme It Out

However, let’s briefly discuss an issue that affects all current gaming consoles, including the Nintendo Switch and its upcoming version. Unfortunately, they lack customizable themes at the moment.

The Xbox currently displays static images, while the new UI for PS5 has recently been released. When the PS4 initially launched, there were numerous appealing dynamic themes available that enhanced the console’s appearance. Although it doesn’t impact gameplay, I find it concerning that a multibillion-dollar corporation hasn’t incorporated a straightforward revenue-generating feature like custom home themes.

These gaming devices have been popular since the days of PS3 and Xbox 360, and they were adored in those times. They are still cherished today. However, it’s surprising that a company took five years to leverage a feature that had existed for the last two decades. And that’s not the only instance!

Nintendo’s 3DS had an impressive selection of themes, yet the Switch lacks that feature. They have the potential to rake in significant profits at this moment, but they choose not to. Instead, they opt for inflating the cost of their console and games. Remarkably, they find it too burdensome to provide a straightforward $5 UI upgrade.

I don’t know. Maybe we forgot how to do them and lost the technology?

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2025-04-24 17:00