PS3 firmware 2.40 on the way

In-game XMB and trophies!

PS3 owner around the world have finally been given a glimpse of what’s to come in the next big firmware update, v2.40.

As expected, and very very welcome, is the official news that 2.40 will include in-game XMB access meaning things like messaging friends will now be possible without having to quit your game. Possibly just as exciting depending on your point of view is the confirmation that trophies will also make it into the new firmware. Thought to be the PS3 equivalent to the 360's Achievements system, trophies should provide PS3 gamers with a way of showing their progress through games to the world.

While undoubtedly all good news, the one crucial bit of information missing in all this is a release date. Previous rumours of a June launch are looking a bit like wishful thinking but at least there’s now sign it's nearing completion.

Meanwhile, in less exciting firmware news, PS3 owners turning on their consoles today will be prompted to install the new 2.36 version of the software which appears to do very little beyond improve "system stability when playing select PlayStation format software titles".

By Paul Newcombe