PS3 firmware upped to 2.0

Sony is continuing to tweak the interface and abilities of the PlayStation 3, as today the company announced the impending release of system firmware 2.0.

Set to become available tomorrow, the new update will add a handful of features to the PS3. One such addition is the "remote start" option that lets users connecting to the system with a PlayStation Portable turn the PS3's power on from the handheld using a wireless Internet connection. The update will also add an "information board" to the PS3's main cross media bar. The board will be a streaming news ticker with updates and announcements provided by Sony Computer Entertainment America.

Other features being added include the ability for users to create custom themes (sets of matching custom icons and wallpapers) for their systems, as well as playlists for music and pictures. Finally, a PlayStation Network category will be added to the cross media bar that includes settings and account management for the PlayStation Store, and will also play a role in "several new initiatives planned for the future."