The PlayStation 5 offers a dynamic home screen experience, but it lacks a key feature from its predecessor: custom themes. Remember those downloadable, earnable, or even game-bundled themes that personalized your PS4 dashboard? They’re absent on the PS5. This article explores the current state of PS5 home screen customization and alternative personalization options.
PS5 Themes: A Missing Feature
Ratchet and Clank on the PS5 home screen.Image used with permission by copyright holder
The PS5 doesn’t support custom themes. Instead, the background dynamically changes to artwork from the currently selected game or app, displaying additional information alongside it. While visually engaging, this dynamic system replaces the static, customizable themes of the PS4.
Customizing the PS5 Background: Current Limitations
The dynamic background system on the PS5 prevents users from setting a custom background image. Since the background constantly shifts based on the highlighted selection, a static custom image wouldn’t be feasible within the current system architecture. While background customization isn’t possible, Sony offers other avenues for personalizing the PS5 experience.
Exploring PS5 Personalization Options
Though custom themes are unavailable, the PS5 provides alternative personalization features. These range from custom button assignments to remote console activation via phone or tablet, and even voice control functionality. Many of these features aren’t immediately apparent and require some exploration within the console’s settings. These hidden PS5 features offer a degree of personalization, even without custom themes.
PSVR2: Following the PS5’s Footsteps
Sony’s latest virtual reality headset, the PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2), mirrors the PS5’s approach to customization. Similar to the console, the PSVR2 lacks custom themes and background options. This consistency across Sony’s gaming platforms suggests a deliberate design choice.
Conclusion: The Future of PS5 Themes
Currently, the PS5 doesn’t offer custom themes or background customization. However, Sony continues to update and refine the PS5 software. Perhaps future updates will reintroduce themes, providing users with more control over their console’s appearance. In the meantime, alternative personalization options allow for some degree of customization, enhancing the user experience.
