New Firmware Brings Flash 9 to PS3, Wireless Store to PSP

In a post yesterday on the Official Playstation Blog, we got the bullet points on the new firmware updates coming up for the PS3 and PSP. Both are major upgrades and bring some very significant new functionality to Sony's two consoles. A new entry today confirms reports that the forthcoming PS3 firmware will bring Flash 9 support to the console's internet browser. Here's the details:

• Support for the Official PS3 Bluetooth Headset
• Enhanced Interface for Trophy level and comparison
• Offline status and last-logon info for friends
• Enhanced video playback. Create scene search thumbnails to browse through videos and optionally play all videos in the XMB in sequence.
• Power Save setting to turn off PS3 and wireless controllers after a period of inactivity or once a background download or install completes.
• In-game screenshots
• Flash 9 support in the Internet Browser
  

On the mobile side, the PSP gains the ability to access the Playstation Store over WiFi. Users will be able to browse, purchase, and download content directly to their PSP without tethering their console to a PC. Additional new features include:

• A full screen keyboard option for text entry
• Sleep Timer during music playback
• Redesigned XMB background
  

Check out the Official Playstation Blog for a video demo showing off the PSP wirelessly accessing the PS Store. PS3 firmware v2.50 and PSP firmware v5.00 both go live tomorrow, Wed Oct 15th.