PlayStation 3 firmware 4.00 this week [Update: out now]

Update prepares console for Vita management.

Sony will release PlayStation 3 system software update version 4.00 this week in preparation for the Japanese launch of PlayStation Vita in mid-December.

The update will prepare the console to serve as a content management device, allowing users to copy their games, music, photos, and videos between PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita, back up PS Vita save data, and update PS Vita using PS3 networking.

The update also allows PlayStation Plus members to choose whether to enable or disable each automatic update featuring, including: game patches, system software, recommended games and videos, and trophy sync.

A final addition, it’ll also add “new PSN privacy settings” for filtering friend requests and messages.

Thanks, PlayStation Blog.

Update: Looks like it’s out now. Turn on your PlayStation 3s and start downloading!