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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →PlayStation 3 system software version 4.93 is available, but Sony’s release note does not announce a major new feature. It says only that the update “improves system performance.” Sony also reminds owners that the PS3 needs a renewed Blu-ray player encryption key to play Blu-ray discs and directs them to install the latest system software.
What does PS3 update 4.93 do?
Sony’s official PS3 system software support page lists version 4.93 and gives this complete change note: “This system software update improves system performance.” The page provides no measurements, feature list, or explanation of which parts of the console may be affected. It therefore does not establish that 4.93 makes games run faster, fixes a particular problem, or changes online services.
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| 1 |
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PlayStation 3 Slim Console 120GB (Old Model) (Renewed) | $160.33 | Buy on Amazon |
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Sony PlayStation 3 Slim 320 GB Charcoal Black Console (Renewed) | $210.81 | Buy on Amazon |
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Sony Playstation 3 160GB System (Renewed) | $184.22 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![Sony Playstation 3 320GB PS3 Console Only (Renewed) [video game]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31vLAVLBc+L._SL160_.jpg)
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Sony Playstation 3 320GB PS3 Console Only (Renewed) [video game] | $199.39 | Buy on Amazon |
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Sony PlayStation 3 - 80GB System (Renewed) | $217.22 | Buy on Amazon |
Contemporaneous coverage reported the update’s arrival on March 18, 2026. Sony’s support page confirms version 4.93 but does not give a release date in its published text. Push Square reported the March 18 arrival.
Why does Sony mention Blu-ray playback?
Sony’s support page separately states: “Please note, to play Blu-ray discs, your PS3 system needs a renewed Blu-ray player encryption key. Please update your PS3 system software to the latest version to renew the Blu-ray player encryption key.” This is useful context for owners who watch Blu-ray movies on the console: Sony says updating to the latest system software is needed to renew that key.
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- HDMI + Bravia Sync functionality that provides both 1080p output resolution.
- A new 33% slimmer, 36% lighter PlayStation 3 entertainment system that is also more energy efficient.
- Includes a Dualshock 3 wireless controller and a built-in 120GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for connectivity anywhere and multiple media format compatibility.
- Free membership and access to all the events, as well as game, movie, TV and other media content available on the PlayStation Network (PSN).
The Blu-ray notice does not add a separate feature to the published 4.93 change note, nor does Sony’s page describe the technical process behind the renewal. The documented update note remains the general statement about system performance.
How to install PS3 system software 4.93
Sony requires at least 200 MB of free space. For an update over the internet, the space must be available on the PS3 hard drive; for an update using a computer, it must be available on removable storage.
Rank #2
- New slimmer, lighter PS3 system, Wireless controller
- 320GB HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Streams thousands of movies and TV shows instantly from Netflix
- Built-in Blu-ray player with 3D capabilities. HDMI output for 1080p resolution.
Update through the PS3
- Connect the PS3 to the internet.
- On the console, go to Settings > System Update > Update via Internet.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to download and install the update.
Update using a computer and USB drive
- On a computer, format a USB drive as FAT32 and create folders named PS3 and, inside it, UPDATE.
- Download the official update file from Sony’s PS3 system software support page and save it in the UPDATE folder with the filename PS3UPDAT.PUP. The resulting path should be PS3/UPDATE/PS3UPDAT.PUP.
- Connect the USB drive to the PS3, then select Settings > System Update > Update via Storage Media.
- Follow the on-screen prompts. Sony warns against installing update data from unofficial sources or through methods outside its instructions.
A FAT32-compatible USB flash drive is optional and needed only for the computer method; Sony does not require a special PS3-branded drive. The PS3 User’s Guide also describes updates from removable media and notes that update data may sometimes be included on game discs or BD video software. Sony’s current support page presents internet and computer/USB installation as its main methods.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Built-in Wi-Fi access for easy connection to gaming services and the Internet
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- 80 GB of hard disk storage for all your games, music, videos, and photos
- This product is NOT backwards compatible
Rank #4
- New slimmer, lighter PS3 system
- HDD for storing games, music, videos, and photos
- Streams thousands of movies and TV shows instantly from Netflix
- Built-in Blu-ray player with 3D capabilities. HDMI output for 1080p resolution
Rank #3
- Internet Ready With Built-in Wi-Fi with a Cell Broadband Engine Advanced Microprocessor
- When starting up the system for the first time, hold the power button until a "screen display" message shows up on screen. Select the desired output, and the system will startup normally.
- 160GB system
- Blu-ray player to give you pristine picture quality
- The best high-definition viewing experience available
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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