New PS3 update disabling third-party accessories

Earlier this week, we saw a new firmware update released for the PlayStation 3, enabling Blu-ray 3D disc playback and introducing a new “Grief Reporting Function” to combat the jerks who want to spoil everybody else’s online fun.

Alas, there’s been a drawback to firmware update 3.50 – it’s disabled a ton of third-party PS3 controllers, USB devices such as thumb drives and external hard drives, and even those plastic Guitar Hero peripherals. Official controllers appear to be fine. Oo-er.

A message thread of woe has been opened up on the official PlayStation forums for people to report what no longer works; it’s fair to say quite a lot of stuff is affected, and people are pissed.

Earlier this week, Sony published the following apparently prescient statement:

“SCEA does not support continued functionality of counterfeit or unlicensed controllers in system software updates and these devices may cease to function in the future because of system software updates. SCE and its affiliated companies disclaim all liability for any loss or damage suffered by you or any third party through the use of counterfeit or unlicensed products.”

All of which is very reasonable, of course, but a lot of completely licensed controllers from quite big and legitimate companies are packing in.

[Via Eurogamer]