PSP Firmware 4.00 Announced and PS3 2.36 Released!

There were rumors all around for this release but finally Sony has made things official with the release today. They announced  PSP Firmware 4.00 and released an update for the PS3 2.36.

This firmware release is the update that many of us have been waiting for a long time. I think the biggest feature in this release is the ability to do a Google search direct from your XMB. Other new features that many of us have been waiting for is the ability to add home brew apps or better use of the memory stick (virtual memory).

Yesterday, Sony also released the anticipated PS3 2.36 firmware. This new version is a precursor to the pending 2.40 update, merely fixes a few stability issues an I think its better than nothing, right?

Here is the official change log from Sony for PSP firmware 4.00:

• [Google/Internet Search] has been added as a feature under [Network].
• You can now update viewing speed during video playback by pressing the Up and Down buttons.

According to my observations, these updates are really cool, especially the Google search, but they leave much to be desired. When is Sony going to listen to its PSP users and include DivX support?

As far as the updates to the PS3, unless you are having stability issues you can just wait for the 2.40 update. When the 2.40 upgrade does finally become available, Sony confirms it will feature in-game XMB and trophies.

Both updates for the PS3 and PSP firmwares are live now. You can download at your leisure.