First PlayStation 5 System Update of 2026 Adds Read Receipts and More

Sony has released the first PlayStation 5 system update of the year, which includes several new firmware features.

The catchily-named Update 26.01-12.60.00 is available to download today and actually includes a couple of notable changes, beyond the usual vague improvements to performance and stability.

Today’s headline addition is the ability to turn on read receipts for your messages, which you can opt into via your Settings menu. With this, you’ll allow others to see you’ve read their DMs. Sony has said it’s switching this feature on gradually even if you have the update installed — so don’t be surpised if it still takes some time to show up.

Another new addition today is the ability to jump from Friends Activity directly into a game that a friend is playing.

Today also brings the first PlayStation 4 system update of the year. PS4 system software version 13.04 is available now, though includes no major changes. Full patch notes for the two console updates lie below.

PlayStation 5 System Software Version 26.01-12.60.00.06

You can now jump directly from the Friends Activity widget in your Welcome Hub to the games your friends are playing.
You can now turn on read receipts to show other players when you’ve read their messages.
- To turn on your read receipts, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy > View and Customize Your Privacy Settings. Under Communication and multiplayer, set Show read receipts to other players on PS5 and PlayStation App to Allow.
- This feature will be rolled out gradually, and some users will be able to use it when the system software update is released.
We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens.
We’ve improved system software performance and stability.