Sony's Home beta has received a sizable update, allowing a few graphical enhancements and interface tweaks.

the PlayStation 3 Home beta software has received its first update since the virtual community's exclusive launch in early May. Providing a number of graphical enhancements, the update offers better looking mini-games and allots users a few new customization options such as weight control, hair color toggling, and new clothing choices for their now sharper online characters.


Streaming has also improved for all video panels displayed in public areas, which will now take into account how closely one stands to the screens and adjust the picture quality accordingly. In addition, new movie trailers for upcoming Sony Pictures releases have been added as well. Moving about the virtual world of Home seems to be quicker, since the report also states that in-game avatars can now finally run as opposed to just walk. As a final bit of content, there are new items to adorn one's HomeSpace.

Tantalizing those who have been pining for cross media bar access while playing PS3 games, this update finally allows users to access the XMB at any time by pressing select, as gamers can now view their friends list and send messages without exiting Home. While Home has yet to deliver some of the promised arcade games and online chess playing capabilities, it has time for more tweaking and updates before its currently scheduled fall release.