The PS5 beta firmware brings the first exclusive features to the slim model, and adds some content that was teased back at the PS5 launch

Sony has begun rolling out a new PlayStation 5 firmware update beta, and it has an unusual set of features. The new beta consists primarily of three features that enhance existing functionality in interesting new ways.

Perhaps the most interesting (and longest-in-development) feature is the PS5’s ability to create custom 3D audio profiles for each user based on the unique characteristics of their ears.

You may remember that back when the PlayStation 5 was announced, Mark Cerny talked up the console’s 3D audio capabilities. At the time, the system architect said that you’d even be able to send a picture of your ears to Sony to create a custom audio profile for you.

We’re not there quite yet, but this new PS5 beta firmware finally adds the ability to personalize 3D audio. This isn’t done through a picture of your ears, but rather through a sound test that each user can take so that the console analyzes the individual factors that allow each of us to hear and recognize sound. This can be done using headphones and earbuds, such as Sony’s own Pulse Elite wireless headphones and Pulse Explore wireless earbuds. It’s not clear if other headphones or earbuds will support the feature, though.

Once created, 3D Audio Profiles are saved per user. If you want to use existing 3D Audio presets, they will be preserved as well.

Another big addition in this firmware is what Sony calls Adaptive Controller Charging. The feature supports the DualSense wireless controller, the DualSense Edge, the Sense controller for PS VR2, and the Access controller. However, only those who own the new, slimmer PS5 model (the CFI-2000 model) can take advantage of it.

Adaptive Charging is a power saving feature that works by adjusting how long it powers your controller based on the battery level. Currently, when you plug a controller into the console to charge, the USB port will continue to power it even when it’s not needed. After installing the firmware and enabling Adaptive Charging, the console will now intelligently detect if power is needed.

This feature works when your PS5 is in Rest Mode, as this is the console’s only standby mode. Your controller will also need to be connected via the USB Type-C port using the Type-C cable that came with the console.

Finally, remote play has also received a boost with this update. You can now adjust the settings for the game streaming feature on a per-user basis and control who can connect to your PS5. For example, you can allow a friend to continue to access your PS5 (for remote gaming purposes) even when they are away from home.

As always, the beta is available to users in the same group of countries where PS5 firmware beta updates are usually made available. These countries include the United States, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France.