PS4 v. Xbox One: More Details For Firmware 2.0 Update, Xbox Screenshot Feature And Paid Xbox Music Emerge

Sony Playstation — A person plays a video game at a Sony PlayStation in the Sony's flagship store in Berlin, April 27, 2011. Reuters/Thomas Peter

The downpour of new information and some details about the PS4 Firmware 2.0 update continues, this time in the form of screenshots obtained from SCE Japan and Asia. This follows a slew of hints from Sony drumming up some hype on what could be one of the biggest updates for its PS4 console.

The new batch of screenshots has been obtained by DualShockers, with the added courtesy of translation of the screenshots for those who cannot read the original Japanese texts. Among the screenshots in the link above, the much-touted Share Play feature is showcased, which is one of the ways PS4 players can share their gaming experience. There's also a screenshot showcasing message invitation to the Share Play Party.

Another screenshot displays a disclaimer that confirms the rumours about how the experience and gameplay features that can be obtained via Share Play may differ from the gameplay experience in one's own PS4. It appears that privacy will still be maintained even if players host a Share Play party. One screenshot translates that if the host is checking out another screen on his PS4, the invited party cannot view the same screen. This means that your invited Share Play party can only view the game screen and nothing else from your end.

There are also two ways on how a player can give a controller to his guest. The first is to have the guest play with you in a multiplayer game, while the second is to give him control of the game by handing him the controller and letting him play in your stead. When you're finished with Share Play, you can use other mediums like Facebook and YouTube to share the experience.

The released screenshots also feature the YouTube app, some of the settings and the new library. Hopefully, the next statements from Sony regarding the PS4 Firmware 2.0 update will include a timeline for the update's public release.

For the Xbox One, there are also some updates on the upcoming features. After just recently teasing the November Xbox One system update, IGN reports that the December update may be a smaller one compared with previous releases. Because of this, the screenshot feature may be pushed back to next year, when Xbox One owners can expect more features added to the updates list. The holidays may be a time for some of the focus on the consoles to wind down a bit to prepare for a grander start in 2015.

However, Xbox also has some not-so-positive news. The Verge reports that Microsoft will be turning the free Xbox Music streaming service into a paid subscription. This will be made available for $9.99 per month, which will give users an Xbox Music Pass.

Microsoft has not given an official reason for the shift in model but the source cited the company's aim of delivering "ultimate music purchase and subscription service experience" to Xbox owners. It may be to compete with leading music apps that offer similar services, but Microsoft has yet to announce any improvements coming with the paid subscription.