Sony Online Entertainment and the DC Universe Online team have announced that Update 8 has officially deployed. The latest patch brings the Research & Development system online. As the name implies, the new system allows players to create new items.

According to the press release, there are four components to the R&D system:

• Finding and Researching: Plans to create Equipment Mods to upgrade gear and consumables can be collected throughout the world.
• Gathering: Throughout the open world (including Gotham City, Metropolis and Central City), players (1-30) can find exobytes and other items.
• Salvaging: Players can turn unused, uncommon or rare items into crafting materials, and they can recover a rare item and create a useful piece of new equipment.  
• Collecting: Bosses will drop useful ingredients such as Focusing Elements and Plans throughout the game.

Read all of the details on the DC Universe Online page.