PS4 1.50 Software Update
Sony PlayStation 4 owners will have to run the 1.50 software update on their PS4 to get the most functionality out of it on launch day. Sony

Sony (NYSE:SNE) PlayStation 4 owners will need to run a system update before they’re able to get into the fray with their brand new PS4. The PS4 1.50 system software update adds some functionality that was missing on the base software installed prior to PS4 shipments.

According to Sony, the 300 MB update has several features, which include:

Remote Play

Remote Play allows users to play PS4 titles remotely from a PlayStation Vita over Wi-Fi networks though the PS4 link application. PS Vita owners will also be required to update software to the latest version to use the PlayStation 4 Remote Play feature.

Second Screen

This feature lets players use the PS4 Link application on PS Vita and the PlayStation app for iPhone and Android OS to use these devices as a second screen for games that support the feature, including “Battlefield 4 (BF4),” “The Playroom,” “Assassin’s Creed IV.”

Screenshots and Gameplay Recording

PS4 constantly records the last 15 minutes of gameplay, which can be shared on Twitter and Facebook by just hitting the share button on the DualShock 4 controller.

Spectating and Live Streaming Gameplay

PlayStation 4 owners can live stream and observe other game play using Ustream and Twitch.

Play as you Download

While PS4 games will have to be installed to the hard drive, that doesn’t mean players will have to wait forever to start playing. After a portion of the game is loaded on the hard drive, PS4 owners can play their games as they’re being loaded.

Multiple Logins

According to Sony, four players can be logged into a PlayStation 4 at the same time to use their own save data and acquire new trophies for their individual PlayStation Network account for PS4.

Voice Chat

Using the included PS4 mono headset, players can chat with eight friends simultaneously in party chat. This works between the PS4 and PS Vita, and players do not need to be in the same game or application at the same time.

Facial Recognition and Voice Commands

If opting to purchase the PlayStation camera, PlayStation 4 owners can use their face to login to their PS4. Voice commands can also be used to navigate the PS4 using the included mono headset or the PlayStation Camera.

Background Music Player

PS4 owners using the Music Unlimited service can stream music in the background while also playing games.

Online Multiplayer

Through the PS Plus Network, PlayStation 4 owners can play PS4 games with other players. PS Plus requires an additional subscription.

Blu-Ray Disc and DVD player

For the movie lovers, Blu-ray and DVD functionality is added with this update. The PS4 must be connected to the Internet to activate the added feature.

What’s missing?

According to Sony, the touted “suspend/resume mode” will not be available at launch. MP3 playback from USB connected drives and DLNA support will also not be available initially. However, Shuhei Yoshida, Sony President of Worldwide Studios, said the features would be added after hearing consumer feedback. Yoshida said Sony was “caught off guard,” according to a GiantBomb report.

How do I install the PS4 1.50 System Software Update?

PS4 owners will be able to install the day one PS4 1.50 system software update via three methods: PS4 download via Internet, disc-based update through games that contain the system software update and through a USB stick which can be prepared via PC. For step-by-step directions on the process, check out the official Sony PlayStation page.

For users looking to download the day one PlayStation 4 1.50 update onto a USB drive, you can also get the file from here.

Note: International Business Times is not responsible for any damage the official system update may cause. Update at your own risk.

The PlayStation 4 launches on Friday at midnight. Let us know what you’re looking forward to with the PS4 in the comments.