Please support Game Informer. Print magazine subscriptions are less than $2 per issue
New Firmware For 3DS And PlayStation Vita
Whether you prefer the Streetpass-infused goodness of the 3DS or the beautiful screen of the PlayStation Vita (or both), there is new firmware for you available now. Both add neat features that will make using the devices that much more enjoyable.
The 3DS gets StreetPass Relay functionality
We reported not long ago about an enhanced way for 3DS users to earn more StreetPass tags. The relay functionality uses Nintendo Zone locations to gather the data of the last person who passed by. For those in less populated areas, this is a great way to earn more puzzle pieces, build an army for Warrior's Way, and save the galaxy in Mii Force.
The Vita gets a number of usability features
The 2.60 firmware upgrade for the PlayStation Vita includes a number of enhancements, but none is more important that increased functionality for the PS button. Now, pressing and holding it brings up a menu for altering system-level features. Airplane mode, WiFi, mobile network settings, Bluetooth and more are now more easily accessible.
Additionally, when using a PSP or PlayStation 1 game, the menu is brought up by pressing and holding the PS button. The home screen can now be altered with the physical controls, and trophies are now subject to privacy settings that can limit who can view them.
Our Take
One of the greatest things about contemporary consoles (handheld and living room) is the ability for platform holders to upgrade the functions. As a (happy) owner of both a 3DS and a Vita, I am looking forward to both of these firmware enhancements.
I’d like to ask you to support Game Informer’s continued coverage of games with a subscription. For less than two dollars per issue, we mail you a full year of 10 print magazines, each with cover stories and preview features filled with exclusive details about the most exciting upcoming games. We profile and interview game creators. We look back on the rich history of gaming, and we celebrate what’s next.
Here on the website, we offer much of our content for free, including game reviews, daily news, videos, event coverage, and more – all with minimal ads.
We do so with a small editorial team, alongside contributing paid writers from around the world – over 65 individuals from 9 countries around the world, just in the last couple of years.
It’s not possible without support.
In a time when game makers and games coverage have faced hard struggles and layoffs, the future of this 30+ year magazine and community is at risk. Our new standalone magazine subscription is the number one way you can keep us alive – and we believe you’ll get a pretty fantastic gaming magazine in your mailbox every few weeks for your trouble.
Thank you.
