Sony dates PS3 latest firmware debut

Version 2.40 to launch alongside DualShock 3

Sony has finally broken its silence over the launch date for the PlayStation 3’s 2.40 firmware version, and confirmed that it’ll be available on the same day that the DualShock 3 rumbling controller launches.

The PS3's firmware update version 2.40 adds a trophy rewards function

Register Hardware reported this morning that the DualShock 3 will be released in Europe on 2 July. But gamers will get a double bonus on the day, in the form of the latest feature-packed firmware version for the console.

The company’s already spoilt most of the surprise by naming the version’s confirmed features. Eric Lempel, director of PlayStation network operations, recently wrote on the PS3 official blog that the update will, most notably, include “XMB access in-game”. This allows gamers to access the console’s system menu without quitting the current game.

Version 2.40 will also include trophies to reward gamers for their gaming progress, such as exclusive graphics that can then be waved jeeringly at lesser gamers.

The update will be available to download free of charge from 2 July.