PS4 Pro Latest News & Update: Firmware Update Version 4.50 Will Introduce 'Boost Mode'

Sony will be releasing a beta preview of the latest firmware update for the PlayStation 4. Firmware update version 4.50 will introduce "Boost Mode" to the PlayStation 4 consoles.

Firmware update version 4.50 will introduce "Boost Mode," a feature that will enable older PlayStation 4 game titles to run better on the new PlayStation 4 Pro that currently boasts new hardware, even if the game has not been designed by developers to be optimized. Unfortunately, "Boost Mode" is exclusive only to the PS4 Pro.

"Boost Mode" can be found in the PS4 Pro's settings menu. A spokesperson from Sony told The Verge that when "Boost Mode" is activated, the PS4 Pro will run at a higher GPU and CPU clock speed. This means that games released on the PlayStation 4 before PS4 Pro will have an improved gameplay.

"Games that have a variable frame rate may benefit from a higher frame rate, and load times may be shorter in some games too," the spokesperson added about the PlayStation 4. But the "Boost Mode" however, also has its flaws. According to Geek, user's that have tried the new setting said the mode will only enhance the performance of games that doesn't have locked frame rates.

Users are also notified that when "Boost Mode" is enabled, they might encounter "unexpected behaviors" during gameplays. This leads to Geek's theory of PlayStation 4 Pro overclocking certain games' performance which theoretically comes with risks. To those who own an HDR capable 4K resolution TVs, owning a PS4 Pro might be worth their money since standard 1080p resolution TVs won't reap the benefits of the upgraded PS4 Pro. With the "Boost Mode" however, those who own standard 1080p TVs will have a reason to buy the upgraded console.

Aside from "Boost Mode", the upcoming firmware update version 4.50 also adds support for external HDD to all PS4 models, remodeled menus, and will enable players to watch 3D Blu-rays in PlayStation VR. Stay tuned for more PlayStation 4 news and updates!