Following the release of brand new System Software Updates for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, users are experiencing issues with PlayStation Network and PS Plus as both services appear to be down for users around the world.

Sony has yet to release an official response to the situation, but fans have taken to social media to express their outrage at the situation.

Today's firmware updates weren't for the usual run of the mill 'stability improvements', instead both consoles were updated with some brand new features. PlayStation 5 users now have the ability to keep more games on their home screen and pin select titles to stay in place, as well as a redesign to the Game Base feature.

PlayStation 4 users had far less to get excited about, as today's system update simply made a few changes to the party chat options.

But one thing both consoles now have in common, neither can play their favourite online games as the PlayStation Network and PS Plus are both officially down on March 23.

  • READ MORE: PS4 System Software Update 9.50 Patch Notes Today (March 23)

Why Is PlayStation Network Down and PS Plus Not Working Today?

UPDATE: According to the official PlayStation Status website, connectivity issues are currently being investigated as Sony states "You might have difficulty launching games, apps, or network features. We're working to resolve the issue as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience".

ORIGINAL STORY: As mentioned previously, Sony is yet to publish an official response to the situation, but it appears that the reason for PlayStation services such as PS Plus and PlayStation Network being down come due to the recently released firmware updates.

Both updates were deployed at around 9AM GMT, with many players experiencing connectivity issues shortly after updating their consoles.

Sony are likely already hard at work on rectifying the issue, so we will be sure to update this article with further details on the situation once they are shared.

In the meantime, fans can check out all of the new features included in today's PS5 update right here.

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