PS4 News: Interface Features Reviewed Before Release Date

In anticipation of the fast approaching PlayStation 4 launch on Nov. 15, let's review just what the next-gen console's user interface brings to the table. 

Sony recently unveiled the official user interface at a launch event in New York City. As IGN reported, when logging in to the PlayStation 4, solo users can set it up so the console boots up directly to the main page. Players can also calibrate the PlayStation Eye (if they have bought one) to use facial recognition to sign in. For those who have multiple users on the console, players will have a login screen featuring big bright icons or pictures of the player to choose from while starting up the console.

Much like the XMB on the PlayStation 3, the different categories of content for the PlayStation 4 are arranged horizontally, and players will find many thumbnail-like links to their content to explore. A new category, What's New, will be added that shows the latest updates from those on the player's friends list.

One of the most notable improvements to the console's new user interface is increased speed between switching to different features. Loading videos and entering party chat are almost instantaneous; however, loading games is slower due to their large file sizes.

The Home button on the game will also have some new functionality. Double tapping the button will allow users to switch between the two most recent apps, which means those stuck in a game can hit the home button twice then switch to a video walkthrough of the level.

Party chat will support eight players at once, and gamers can use the feature across all different aspects of the console. Players will also be able to send pictures and text through party chat as well. Party chat is also cross platform between the PlayStation 4, Vita, and smartphones and tablets with the PlayStation app.

The PlayStation Store will get a visual overhaul, along with some new features that can help out players. For example, certain games will have the option of prioritizing downloads for certain parts of the game. Example: buyers of the digital version of Call of Duty: Ghosts can choose to download the multiplayer portion of the game first and begin playing, and then download the single player campaign later.