PS Vita Firmware Update 1.8 packs a whole host of features

The PS Vita has always been a remarkable piece of hardware since its launch, but like all diamonds it is still rough around the edges. Sony has been pledging to continue updates for the PS Vita and with their gamescom 2012 press conference comes an announcement of System Software Update 1.8.

PSOne Classics Support

That’s right folks, one of the biggest features that has been requested by owners of the PS Vita is the support for PSOne classics. Arguably we found it perplexing when the PS Vita couldn’t play our favorite PSOne titles during its launch, but better late than never as we finally can take those amazing JRPGs on the go once again.

Cross Controller

While gimmicky, the new Cross Controller feature will allow users to play their PS3 games with the PS Vita controls, every bit and inch of its functions included — provided the game supports it that is.

As was demoed during the Sony gamescom 2012 press conference, Little Big Planet 2 will be the first game that will make use of the new Cross Controller feature. A new update for LBP2 will allow users to play levels utilizing not only the physical controls on the PS Vita, but also its touch screen capabilities, motion sensor and also the camera.

We’re excited for this feature even if this is a blatant copy of the Wii U, the only thing it needs is plenty of support for a variety of games. Don’t screw this up like you did with the SIXAXIS rip-off you did Sony.

Watch this “kewl” (hey, we didn’t say it) feature in action courtesy of CNET

Video, Music and Controls

The Video player on the PS Vita will spot 2 new controls — Playback speed control and Repeat. In addition to that, Playlists will also now be a feature part of the PS Vita allowing users to transfer their custom-made playlists from iTunes, M3U playlists and M3U8.

On the subject of video and music, perhaps one of those smaller features that gets on our nerves when we can’t really control our music and videos intuitively with the PS Vita physical buttons. Sony has included the ability to play, pause and use different controls of certain applications on the PS Vita.

Web Browser and Photos

Giving an extra intuitive option for navigating through the Internet, users can now scroll through a webpage using the back touch panel of the PS Vita. Nifty we think, so we don’t really have to use our thumbs and suffer cramps anymore.

MPO support for the photo viewer has also been added, though 3D and multi-angle view obviously isn’t.

Group Messaging, Maps and “near”

Sony showed an improved layout for the Group Messaging application, users will also be allowed to attach pictures when chatting in Group Messages.

An instant switch button has been added for “Search for Location” and “Search for Destinations” to the Maps application. Also you can sticky yourself to a certain point of a map by adding a flag onto it.

Finally “near” will be given the ability to gather data from Wi-fi access points and update its location data even or when you are out of internet connection.

Obviously the 1.8 System Software Update for the PS Vita is proving to be a significant one. The update drops for all PS Vita users this August 28th, 2012.