Since the PlayStation 3 was released, its Swiss Army knife-like functionality has been rightly praised, but there’s no question that the flexibility of the system’s user interface was decidedly last-generation and paled in comparison to the Xbox 360’s more capable one.

In an effort to finally catch up, Sony released the PS3’s 2.40 firmware upgrade to consoles today. While Sony does add a nice ability to look at your progress toward earning certain Trophies (Sony’s version of Achievements), the new firmware unashamedly copies the Xbox 360’s Achievements system, right down to making a noise when a Trophy is won. It’s not subtle, but if imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Microsoft should be blushing that Sony - even after over two years - couldn’t come up with a better system.

The Sony system does utilize a wrinkle that stands apart from Microsoft’s Gamerscore; the Gamer Level, which incorporates the trophies earned and forges them into an overall level, using the ubiquitous Olympic-based bronze, silver and gold standards. Platinum Trophies, which are earned by unlocking all other Trophies in a game, will boost a gamer’s level quickly.

Friends list integration has been incorporate into every game via text messaging, and all the Xross Media Bar (XMB)’s functionality is available by pressing the PlayStation logo button on the controller at any time. From there, every option is available, though many will require you to quit your game to use them. Custom Soundtracks are available, but the game needs to allow it, unlike the Xbox 360’s system, which works on a separate level the game itself. Like much of the 2.40 upgrade, it works, but it feels more shallow than the competition.

In all, the 2.40 setup, while a big step forward, isn’t world-changing and still lags noticeably behind Microsoft’s superior flexibility. While the Trophies are nice, they’re flat-out lifted from the Xbox 360 and much of the rest feels tacked on… which it is, of course. That said, Sony’s finally on the right track - and realizing that you’re behind is the first step in catching up.

***

Kotaku.com is reporting that some users have had significant problems after upgrading the PlayStation 3’s firmware to 2.40, including “bricking” the system and rendering it inoperable. As a result, the 2.40 update has been pulled for the time being and Sony is said to be readying a response.  More information can be found on the PlayStation forums.