Playstation Vita Update 1.80 Incoming, Brings New Features

Tomorrow players around the globe will be able to download the brand-new Playstation Vita Update 1.80 which adds a slew of new features as well as the much anticipated PS One Classic playback.

First up is the ability to use the direction buttons (d-pad) to navigate the Vita’s normally touch only menu screen also with the use of X and O. X of course will be confirm while O will be close and peel away. This feature will require the user to turn it on in the system settings menu.

The Playstation Vita’s web browser has been given a makeover so the Search Bar has been moved and now a tap button the right hand side has been added to scroll to the top of the page automatically. Also, users will now be able to scroll through the browser with the rear touchpad.

The video player now allows users to select play speeds by touching or with direction buttons for fine tuning. The Maps application now allows for easy access to ‘search for direction’ and ‘search for location’ options. You can also now plant and drag a flag around the map. The music player will now allow your downloaded playlist or iTunes playlist to be played on the Vita. You must first download it via the Content Manager but it is now easily accessible from the music application. Also the notifications pop-out window has now become more wider and easier to see. Users are now given the option in the settings to completely turn off notifications.

There is a new cross-controller application that allows for easy access to sync your vita with your Playstation 3 to use as a controller with games like the upcoming LittleBigPlanet 2 Vita add-on.

The main feature fans are excited about is the PS One Classics compatibility for the Playstation Vita. In North America it will start out with a nine titles listed below and go with a weekly roll out. However in Europe there will be 129 titles available on day one. The full list can be viewed at the EU PS Blog. Be sure to check out the video below to see some of the new features in action.