Your PS5 can do some new tricks, as PlayStation releases a free upgrade

A new System Software update for the PlayStation 5 is rolling out now and it introduces some key new features for Discord users and parents.

For starters, System Software 24.04-09.40.00 adds the ability to finally start or join a Discord voice call directly from your console.

First you need to link your Discord and PlayStation Network accounts on Discord itself. Then you should be able to find the controls inside "Game Base" in the PS5's control centre – a new Discord tab should become available.

In addition, the device software for the Sony Pulse Elite, Pulse Explore earbuds, and PlayStation Link USB adapter has been updated with stability tweaks and improvements.

But perhaps the most significant change is how child accounts now work.

You can now link and add third-party services and apps to a child account – something that was previously prohibited. That means younger players can now also use Discord voice chat, and access music streaming services, such as Spotify and Apple Music.

Children can also now share videos on YouTube and Twitch, directly from the PlayStation.

Finally, new parental controls have arrived to reflect the change, notifying guardians when a child's account links with a third-party service, and given them more management options.

The new upgrade is available to download onto your PS5 now, so should install automatically. If not, you might need to double check the "Downloads/Uploads" menu in the control centre on the homepage.

You can check out the entire patch notes for PS5 System Software Version 24.04-09.40.00 below:

• Child accounts can now link and add third-party services and apps to their account for PlayStation Network to enjoy benefits and features that enhance their gameplay experience.
  • Younger players that use child accounts on PS5 can link accounts to use features like Discord voice chat, music streaming via Apple Music and Spotify, and broadcasting and sharing gameplay via YouTube and Twitch.
  • New parental controls are available for parents and guardians. These controls notify and allow them to manage their child's account links with third-party services and apps.
    Availability may vary depending on age, parental control settings, and country/region.
• You can now start or join a Discord voice chat directly from your PS5.
  Open Game Base in the control center and select the Discord tab to access your servers and direct calls.
• We’ve updated the device software for the PULSE Elite wireless headset, PULSE Explore wireless earbuds, and PlayStation Link USB adapter.
  • PlayStation Link connection stability has been improved.
  • We've fixed an issue with the PULSE Elite wireless headset that caused the power to turn off when the audio cable is connected to the audio input jack.
  • On the PULSE Elite wireless headset, the status indicator that turns on after establishing PlayStation Link connection is now less bright.
• We've improved system software performance and stability.
• We've improved the messages and usability on some screens.