One of the most exciting aspects of personalizing your PlayStation 5 is customizing its background. Unlike its predecessor, the PS5 has taken a slightly different approach to themes and wallpapers, which has left many gamers wondering how to make their console more visually unique. While the system doesn’t support custom themes in the traditional sense like the PS4, there are still ways to personalize your PS5 experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of changing the background on your PS5 using the available methods. Whether you’re a seasoned PlayStation veteran or new to the console, this guide will help you make your system truly feel like your own.
Why the PS5 Doesn’t Support Traditional Themes—Yet
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that the PS5’s UI functions differently from the PS4. On the PS5, the background changes dynamically based on the game or app you have selected. This means when you hover over a game tile on the home screen, your background changes to reflect that game’s theme or music.
While Sony has not yet added support for custom static themes, users can still creatively personalize certain visual aspects of their system. Below are a few methods you can use to change the appearance of your PS5 interface.
Method 1: Dynamic Backgrounds Through Game Selection
This is the simplest and most immediate way to change what you see on your home screen.
- Navigate to the Home Screen: Turn on your PS5 and make sure you’re on the main dashboard.
- Select a Game Tile: Use the analog stick to highlight any installed game.
- Wait a Moment: After a short pause, the PS5 will display a dynamic background that features the game’s artwork and sometimes music.
Tip: Try scrolling through different games to explore a variety of unique visuals and soundscapes for your home screen.
Method 2: Use the Media Gallery for Personal Touches
Another way to give your PS5 a unique flair is by accessing your Media Gallery. Although you can’t set these images as permanent backgrounds, using them creatively can enhance your interface experience.
- Go to Media Gallery: From your home screen, navigate to the “Game Library” and find “Media Gallery.”
- Upload Custom Images: Move images from a USB drive or take screenshots during gameplay.
- View & Display: Use the Media Gallery to view and share these images, or use them when creating content or sharing trophies.
Although this doesn’t directly change the background, it provides a fun way to infuse your personal style into the system.
Method 3: Wait for Future Updates
Sony has hinted that future system updates may restore some of the beloved customization features from the PS4, including the option to apply custom themes and wallpapers. Keeping your PS5 updated ensures you’ll be one of the first to gain access when new personalization features roll out.
To check for updates:
- Go to Settings: Scroll to the gear icon in the top right corner of your home screen.
- Select “System”: Then go to “System Software” → “System Software Update and Settings.”
- Choose “Update System Software”: Follow the prompts if an update is available.
Bonus Tip: Customize Game Tiles & Folders
While you’re customizing the look of your console, consider organizing your game tiles to suit your preferences.
- Use the Game Library: Enter the Game Library to see a full list of your titles.
- Create Folders: Though limited compared to the PS4, you can favorite certain games or adjust the display order based on recent activity.
This won’t change the background directly but adds a layer of personalization to how you interact with your games.
In Summary
While the PS5 currently doesn’t allow traditional background customization like the PS4, there are still several creative ways to tailor your user experience:
- Use dynamic backgrounds by selecting different game tiles.
- Showcase your favorite screenshots in the Media Gallery.
- Stay on the lookout for future system updates that may add more customization options.
Remember, the PS5 experience is continually evolving, and what’s not possible today might soon become reality in a future firmware update. Until then, these steps should help you make your console feel a little more like yours.
