This system software update improves the quality of the system performance.

Depending on the software title, you may not be able to play without first updating the PS3 system software.

Do not perform updates using any data other than the official update data provided by Sony Computer Entertainment over a network or on disc media, and do not perform updates by methods other than those described in the product documentation or in this site. If an update is performed using data from another source, by another method, or with a PS3 system that has been altered or modified in any way, the PS3 system may not operate properly and may not be able to install the official update data. Any of these actions may void the PS3 system warranty and affect your ability to obtain warranty services and repair services from Sony Computer Entertainment.

It's been quite awhile since Sony's last PS3 Firmware update, but on this Halloween night they have officially released PS3 System Software / Firmware 4.81 update which once again improves system stability. Trick or treat?!Download: PS3 Firmware 4.81 (EU) Update PS3 system software version 4.81 was released on November 1, 2016. Version 4.81 adds or updates the following features.To quote from Sony's PlayStation AU Site via Enter the Dragon Punch : An update to the PlayStation 3 system software was released on 1st November 2016. If you update your PS3 system, the system software version will be 4.81 and the following features will be updated.In order to download PS3 system software version 4.81, you will need a minimum 200MB of free space on either the PS3 Hard Disk Drive (System Update) or on removable storage media (PC Update).This system software update improves the quality of the system performance.Thanks to @B7U3 C50SS in the PSXHAX Shoutbox for the heads up!