Sony PS5 gets big update with power-saving mode and DualSense multi-device support

Sony has started to roll out a new software update for the PlayStation 5, and it typically takes a few days until the new firmware is available to download for all users. The update introduces a brand-new power-saving mode that is intended to reduce power consumption while gaming.

However, this only works with some supported games such as Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, Demon’s Souls, and Ghost of Yōtei (from $69 on Amazon). Sony has not explained how exactly this mode will affect power consumption and graphics quality, but it has already been established that PlayStation VR 2 cannot be used in power-saving mode and that certain modes and features of games may be deactivated. Users can manually select for which games this new power-saving mode is used, and an icon upon starting the game indicates that this mode is active.

According to earlier rumors, Sony could use this power-saving mode to optimize games for the PlayStation gaming handheld, which is expected to launch no later than 2028. The update also enables the ability to pair the DualSense controller with up to four devices simultaneously in order to switch between them quickly. Users can switch between devices at any time by pressing the PlayStation button and either circle, triangle, cross, or square. The four LEDs show which connection has been established. The same buttons must be pressed and held for at least five seconds to pair a new device.