Along with the announcement of new PlayStation 3 Slim console, Sony also showed upcoming firmware 3.00 update. New features with cosmetic treatment to design of XMB (Xross Media Bar) arrive with 3.00 firmware upgrade. The look and feel of the XMB has been worked on and new additions have been made customize the PS3's interface. Yes, the 3.00 firmware will bring custom themes and avatars.
Eric Lempel, Director for PlayStation Network Operations, posted on the official PlayStation Blog about the highlights to be expected when the firmware 3.00 is released. Free and premium avatars would be listed.
PlayStation 3's firmware 3.00 includes new features like the Status Indicator bar that will carry user icon, friend icon, message icon and also one stating the number of friends online. The Status Indicator bar will also serve as PlayStation Network related news ticker bar and pressing PS button will make resist battery indicator to hide clock.
The Friends List will appear in redesigned format and messages from the friends would be viewable from individual profile. Trophies display would be modified into two categories - Base and Add-on trophies. Both types of trophies will form a single list to show the current standing of the user.
A PlayStation Network shortcut icon will appear in Game and Video categories for quick access to the content. Information Board item would be replaced with "What's New" section under PlayStation Network icon carrying latest updates on games, videos and other goodies.
Checkout the video of PS3 firmware 3.00 demo below: