A firmware update coming to PlayStation 4 might possibly be removing the communities feature. Sony sent out an email revealing the contents of the next PlayStation 4 patch, and it includes multiple changes.
Even though the PlayStation 5 has been out for a few months, PS4 is still getting updates. With next generation consoles selling out fast, most players will be on the previous console. An update is potentially coming to the older device which would provide some quality of life changes. However, certain elements suggest that Sony could be winding down the PS4 in the long run.
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Currently a beta for now, update 8.50 sounds like it could be coming sometime during Spring 2021. The main change coming to the console has to do with notifications. For those who are part of multiple groups, disabling message notifications will be possible. If part of the beta, just head into the specific group and open the options to turn off the feature. Another update coming is the ability to truly hide games. Other players will not be able to see games that the user has previously hidden.
Listed at the bottom of the patch notes is a quick mention that Communities will no longer be available. This feature was a way for players to create meeting zones for a specific game. This way, gamers from all over could join and meet likeminded individuals. However, when the new update comes out the option to create and use Communities will not be possible. On the upside, when viewing a game session screen, players can use a new "Request to Join" button to form groups without facing bugs.
Most fans playing on the previous generation will be happy that PlayStation 4 is getting updates. While there is nothing particularly major coming to 8.50, it does look to make some aspects more tolerable. Those who enjoy playing with others intermittently will have more options to make solo playtime more private. And being able to join a group using the new request button should make multiplayer more efficient overall.
That said, there will no doubt be some who are disappointed to learn about Communities. With PlayStation 5 having the biggest launch, it seems like Sony could be trying to reduce the social aspect of the older console. Now these players will have to utilize outside methods to gather up for specific game topics. It is possible that the feature is not that popular though, and that could explain why Sony is removing it. Nevertheless, most will know that it is only a matter of time goes before features are phased out on PlayStation 4.
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Source: mp1st.com