The PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita received new system software updates that further reduced online account features. The updates brought the PS3 and Vita versions up to 4.89 and 3.74, respectively. However, the new versions lack several features related to PSN account management.
The new system updates removed the ability to create and manage PlayStation Network accounts from the PS3 and Vita. The updates also added a compulsory device password input for users to sign in to PlayStation Network. In the patch notes, Sony recommended that legacy console users use a PC or mobile device to manage their accounts. Its newer consoles, the PlayStation 4 and 5, also still retain the account management features.
Sony originally planned to completely shut down the PS3 and Vita’s digital storefronts in 2021. However, it reversed the decision after receiving user feedback, and the PS3 and Vita stores are still available as of this writing.
Regardless of the above, the company is still gradually reducing features on the legacy consoles. In October 2021, it removed PayPal and credit card payment methods which also affected the availability of CERO Z-rated games in Japan. In early April 2022, PS3 and Vita users reported a PlayStation Network bug that caused several game licenses’ expiry date to revert to 1970.
