Sony has released a new firmware update for the PS4, version 13.50, quietly pushing it out at the same time the company's bigger PS5 Pro PSSR 2 news was capturing most of the spotlight.
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What PS4 Firmware 13.50 Actually Changes
Here's the thing: this one is not a headline-grabber. Sony's official patch notes list exactly one change for version 13.50:
- Improved messages and usability on some screens
That's it. No new features, no security overhauls, no performance enhancements. It's a minor quality-of-life tweak targeting certain interface screens, though Sony hasn't specified which screens are affected.
The Bigger Picture: PS5 Pro Takes Center Stage
The timing of this release is notable. The PS4 update landed alongside a much more significant firmware drop for the PS5 and PS5 Pro, which introduced PSSR 2, an upgraded version of Sony's PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution upscaling technology. The PS5 Pro update brings enhanced visual fidelity to supported titles, making it the clear headline act of this firmware cycle.
By comparison, PS4 firmware 13.50 is a footnote. But its existence still carries meaning for the millions of players who haven't yet moved to current-gen hardware.
PS5 Pro PSSR 2 toggle option
Why Sony Still Supports PS4 in 2026
The PS4 launched back in 2013, which means the console is now well over a decade old. The fact that Sony continues to issue firmware updates, even minor ones, points to a simple reality: a significant portion of the PlayStation user base still plays on PS4 regularly.
What most players miss is that continued firmware support isn't just about features. It signals that Sony still considers the PS4 ecosystem worth maintaining, which also matters for online services, PlayStation Network connectivity, and the broader library of games still available on the platform.
The key here is that Sony hasn't announced any end-of-support date for the PS4, and updates like version 13.50 suggest that day isn't imminent, even as the company pushes forward with PS5 Pro enhancements.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does PS4 firmware version 13.50 change?
Sony's official patch notes list one change for version 13.50: improved messages and usability on some screens. No other changes were documented.
Should PS4 owners install firmware 13.50?
Yes. Even when updates are minor, it's good practice to keep your console's firmware current. Updates can include background fixes that Sony doesn't publicly detail.
Is Sony still supporting the PS4 in 2026?
Yes. Sony continues to issue firmware updates for the PS4, indicating the console remains actively supported despite the PS5 and PS5 Pro being the company's current focus.
