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Facebook befriending PS3 Nov. 18

[UPDATE] Firmware update v3.10 introduces native social-networking capabilities to Sony's console; photo layout, friends list tweaks also en route.

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Today, Microsoft's Xbox 360 gained two new community features as part of the Xbox Live fall update: Facebook and Twitter. PlayStation 3 owners, of course, could already access both of these services through their console, courtesy of the system's built-in Web browser. However, as was rumored last week, Sony will more tightly knit the social-networking service into the PS3 as part of firmware update v3.10.

Facebook's new icon on the XMB.
Facebook's new icon on the XMB.

As detailed in a video on Sony's official PlayStation Blog, firmware update v3.10 introduces a native Facebook application to the PS3's XrossMediaBar (XMB). Through the Facebook application, gamers can select an option to upload their trophy accomplishments to the 400-million-member online network. The functionality will also let gamers automatically post updates on what content they purchased through the PlayStation Store.

Though the feature won't be available as part of the v3.10 update, PS3 owners will also be able to share game-specific information on their Facebook accounts in the near future. According to Sony, developers will be able to select certain elements such as in-game accomplishments or stats that can be shared on Facebook.

Beyond Facebook integration, the v3.10 update delivers a handful of tweaks to the PS3's firmware. The XMB's photo section now displays images in a grid format, as opposed to the strictly vertical layout that had previously been available. Sony also made changes to the PSN friends list, adding among other features the ability to change the background color of profile pictures.

[UPDATE] Though Sony did not initially provide a specific date for when firmware update v3.10 would be available, it has since announced it is available as of Wednesday, November 18.

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