Sony has released a new PlayStation 5 firmware update that introduces changes to how the console handles digital licenses. The update specifically affects the “Restore Licenses” feature, which previously allowed users to download licenses for all their purchased games in a single batch, even if those games were not currently installed on the console. With the new update, the “Restore Licenses” screen now only allows users to download licenses for games that are currently installed on their PS5.
This change has significant implications for users who jailbreak their consoles. Before the update, jailbreaking a PS5 allowed users to download all their game licenses while online, then go offline and install the games via a USB drive. However, the new restriction means that jailbroken PS5 users will find most of their legitimate digital game library unplayable unless they resort to using pirated game dumps.
Lance McDonald, a well-known Souls series hacker, highlighted the impact of this change on Twitter.
PS5 license download changes
He explained that the update is a considerable inconvenience for those who want to jailbreak their PS5 consoles in the future.
While this change does not affect legitimate use cases for everyday users, it has divided the PlayStation community. Some fans applaud Sony’s efforts to curb piracy and protect digital rights, while others criticize the move as an unnecessary hurdle for jailbreakers and modders. The latest PS5 firmware update also introduced several new features, such as a Welcome hub with customizable widgets, a Party Share feature, personalized 3D audio profiles, and a new Remote Play setting.
However, the changes to the digital license management system have garnered the most attention and controversy. As the gaming community reacts to this update, it remains to be seen how it will impact the future of PlayStation 5 jailbreaking and modding. Sony’s decision to restrict license downloads appears to be a deliberate move to prevent the creation and sharing of illegal game dumps, but it has also raised concerns among some users who value the freedom to modify their consoles.
