Sony has released a new firmware update today, bringing the version numbers up to 1.7. For the moment the update is only available directly through the PS3's System Update feature- the Sony sites should have the update available for download via the PC later today.

Highlights of this update includes the ability to play the downloadable PSOne Classics games (available in the PlayStation Store in most regions) on the PS3, the ability to use PlayStation format saves on the PSP (handy if you have a save from an older game you re-bought for portable play) and enabling vibration function on PS2 and PSOne accessories. The full list of added features will be reported here once it is available. Unfortunately the ability to actually play those PSOne downloadables will not be available until sometime in May, according to SCEA manager Al de Leon when talking to IGN, as the games will have to be prepped a bit to allow the play on the PS3. Some games will still be PSP- only. No mention of any titles.

In a related note, the firmware for the PlayStation Portable also received an upgrade today, bringing it up to version 3.4. Details on that will also be reported when ready.

cool when do you think lair is going to come to the ps store? also.can the upgrade the ps3 internet speed?

We likely won't see a Lair demo until maybe a week or two before release. patience, grasshopper.

Upgrades to the download speed will have to be done on the server side of things, allowing for more people to get on at the same time. Also, it may be partially due to your own connection, especially if using cable in an area with lots of people using the same service.

"... includes the ability to play the downloadable PSOne Classics games (available in the PlayStation Store in most regions) on the PS3"

Cool, that's the best part of this firmware update. How will I know when I can actually play the PS1 games on my PS3? Will there be another news release, or will it mention it in the Playstation store? I guess I'll have to wait and see for myself.

We should see word from Sony about that as to when it's possible. Most sources point to after the April 26 store update.

I'm kinda disappointed though- bought Jumping Flash! hoping to be able to play it on the big screen and have to wait another week now. Ah well.

"We should see word from Sony about that as to when it's possible. Most sources point to after the April 26 store update.

I'm kinda disappointed though- bought Jumping Flash! hoping to be able to play it on the big screen and have to wait another week now. Ah well."

It's just weird that they would do it that way... update it, but you can't do anything with what you download...

So, how did you know about the week wait for the next update? - Ign?

That and several people on other message boards quoting it. However, it is looking like the current games won't actually be playable until sometime in May. This comes from SCEA manager Al de Leon when contacted by IGN. I've now updated the main story to reflect this.