PS3 firmware 1.90 imminent

Sony's PlayStation 3 will very shortly be updated to firmware version 1.90.

The latest download, which will be released in Europe on July 24, brings with it a range of new features, fixes, and tweaks, including emoticons, in-game PS3 video setting customization, and the ability to eject a disc using the option menu.

Other new features include the ability to rearrange games on the XMB (dashboard), change folder classifications, add bookmarks, and enable Web security, as well as access new XMB backgrounds and a "bit mapping" option in music settings.

Also in the update is the ability to change the CD output to 44.1/88.2/176.4kHz, force 24Hz output for Blu-ray over HDMI, save AVCHD-type animations from a memory stick, and change settings such as upscaling while playing PlayStation and PlayStation 2 games. Avatars will also now move during visual chat.

[UPDATE] According to SCEA's Playstation Blog, the update will be available in the US "in the next few days."