This major update will add new features, expand on existing content and more.

Today marks the v1.70 update for the PlayStation 4, which offers a host of new and improved features to the console. Highlights include:

• SHAREfactory: A free SHAREfactory app will be available to download after the update. Some features include customizing your gameplay videos with special effects, adding commentary using picture-in-picture capability, and importing music to add some flavor to your videos. Watch the video below for more info.
  
• Automatic Pre-download: This new feature allows you to get to your games faster by automatically downloading select pre-ordered games up to several days in advance of the release, so that it’s ready to play as soon as the game is released on launch day. A countdown timer will let you know how long until your game is available to play.
• Option to Disable HDCP for Games: You will have the option to turn off HDCP for games so you can capture longer gameplay sessions directly from your HDMI output and export them elsewhere
• USB Export Option for Captured Gameplay: Click on the DUALSHOCK 4 SHARE button, save your gameplay on a USB drive, and then share your proudest achievements on other social networks and other video platforms.
• Live Broadcasting in HD and Archiving Support: Live broadcast resolution is increased to 720p HD. Archiving in Twitch or Ustream is finally an option as well.
• New SHARE Options:
• Change the default gameplay recording time in the SHARE menu under Video Clip Settings
• Save only the video clips and screenshots you want by selecting Upload Screenshots or Upload Video Clips for each capture. Also upload video clips and screenshots during your live gameplay broadcasts.
• Select specific Facebook audiences to share each video or screenshot with
• New DUALSHOCK 4 Options: New light bar settings have been added for DUALSHOCK 4, allowing you to change it to Bright, Medium or Dim in the Settings menu. The touchpad has also been updated, allowing you to navigate the on-screen keyboard using the DUALSHOCK 4 touchpad.
• New Friends Options: Added ability to search through friends-of-friends, view mutual friends on another's profile, and accept friend requests directly on your Friends list
• New Trophies Sort Option: You can now sort Trophies by rarity in the Options menu
• PlayStation Store Payment Support: Alternative Payment Methods for content is being added to the PlayStation Store, starting with PayPal support
• More PlayStation Camera Commands: More voice commands are added to PlayStation Camera, allowing you to launch the apps installed on your PS4 with the sound of your voice
• New PlayStation Plus Icon: For Plus members, you’ll now have the PS Plus icon appear next to your SEN ID on the login screen, home screen and other areas across the user interface
• Music Unlimited SHARE Options: With a Music Unlimited subscription, you can easily share your favorite songs with your friends by pressing the SHARE button on your DUALSHOCK 4

The PS Vita and PS App are also getting related updates:

• Vita v3.15: PS4 Link Update for Remote Play - Linking the PS4 and Vita together will now be easier. The update will enable Automatic Device Registration, which will automatically detect and pair both systems when they’re both online and the same user is signed in to both devices.
• PS App v1.70: Push Notifications, Friend Requests and More - Adds the option to receive Push Notifications for select PS4 updates you want to receive, such as gameplay Invitations, Game Alerts or Friend Requests. You can also receive Friend Requests via email or text messages with the app update. You'll also be able to change your profile picture from your mobile device by either uploading an image from your photo library or taking a photo with your device's camera.

Share your feedback about the update over on the PlayStation blog!

Ann "Cyliena" Hosler, Managing Editor