Firmware 1.90 is now available in North America

Firmware 1.90 has hit North America earlier than expected and is now available to download onto your shiny PS3s. The firmware update brings with it one of the most frequently requested features for the PS3 -- custom backgrounds. Also added is the ability to arrange game titles in the XMB and the ability to change video options without leaving the movie. The wallpaper feature and the ability to access scaling and video options while watching a movie are huge pluses in particular and showcase Sony's continued efforts to increase the usability and feature set of the PS3.

Here is the full list of updates in Firmware 1.90:

• A wallpaper feature has been added. You can now select a photo to display as the XMB background.

• You can now use emoticons in messages under [Friends]

• Support for text entry in simplified Chinese characters has been added.

• You can now select traditional Chinese characters as a text entry method.

Also included (but not listed in the install process):

• You can now sort games in the XMB via Creation date from the top, from the bottom, and by format.

• You can now also modify almost all video options while watching a DVD/Blu-ray.

• The ability to eject a disc via the Triangle menu.

• You no longer have to plug in your controller to update. Thanks BK! (I knew I wasn't hallucinating!)

Considering Sony's track record, the update probably added even more functionality. Consider it an Easter egg hunt, find all the changes you can!