In recent months we’ve seen many different platforms introduce new age verification systems as part of a renewed ‘online safety’ push, with the UK being one of the primary regions targeted. It appears as though PlayStation has decided to join in on such measures, announcing a new age checker in order to allow players to use the console’s various “communication features.”

PlayStation owners across the UK recently received either an email or a message via the official PlayStation app notifying users that new age verification checks will begin to be enrolled some time later this year, writing:

“Verify your age to keep using communication features. At Sony Interactive Entertainment, we are committed to creating safe, age-appropriate experiences for players and families while respecting privacy and giving players and parents meaningful control over their gaming experience. As part of our compliance with global regulations, you'll need to verify your age later this year to continue using PlayStation communication features, such as messages and voice chat.”

It continues, “You will still be able to access other PlayStation services, like games, trophies, and the Store, if you do not verify your age. This is a one-time check and usually takes just a few minutes. Completing it ahead of time will help you continue accessing communication features when you want to use them.”

While such age checkers have been met with resistance from users, it is encouraging at the very least to see that purchasing and playing mature titles will not require any verification. Still, this could be the first step in a potentially slippery slope.

Discuss on our Facebook page HERE.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the recent rise in age verification requirements online? Will you bother verifying with PlayStation? Let us know down below.

PlayStation Network is a well known brand by this point, having been used by Sony pretty much since the inception of their online platform’s launch. With the service soon to reach its 20 year mark however, it appears as though Sony is planning a big rebranding of PSN.

In an internal email sent to developers (which was obtained by the publication Insider-Gaming), Sony revealed that they plan to retire the PlayStation Network branding come this September, writing:

“We'd like to inform you that Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has strategically decided to phase out the terms ‘PlayStation Network’ and ‘PSN’ across our platform in order to properly capture the breadth of our evolving digital services.”

According to the company, “The upcoming changes are purely visual and will not introduce any technical alterations to our offerings. To simplify and unify branding, the terms ‘PlayStation Network’ and ‘PSN’ will be phased out across all SIE assets by September 2026.”

As stated by PlayStation themselves, this change will be “purely visual” and as such don’t expect the service itself to be altered in any material way. Still, changing the name for what is now a staple of the video games industry is an interesting move.

As mentioned however, PSN is closing in on its 20th anniversary (initially launching in November of 2006) and so perhaps Sony simply thinks it’s time for a bit of a refresh. It will be interesting to see what the new name for PlayStation Network will wind up being.

KitGuru says: What do you think of the PSN branding? Is it due for a change? Does the name PSN give you positive, negative or neutral connotations? Let us know down below.