I just updated my player to version 080918.22.b.1080pkxeg. I tried a version of the region hack(open the tray, hit info, press 9 repeatedly) and nothing happened. I hit 9 again after the the version number dissapeared and a screen popped up with the numbers 1 through 32 and the numbers 3, 7 and 19 were highlighted. Is this some kind of service menu? Has anyone else came across this?

I got the same menu. I did not update the Firmware. Do I need?

Mine is 080729.21.B.1080PKXEG

The "service menu", in my case, has highlighted 3, 7 and 19. Then the n. 1 is inside a yellow square.
I am trying to understand how to get the region code 0 but it is difficult. I am very disappointed. I have a lot of original expensive dvd that i bought in Japan Europe and now I moved to US. Sometimes I thinking that it is better to copy all DVD and change the region code 0. I think the maker of DVD's should get this. I don't understand why thay have still use the region.....
Let me know if you get some advice. I have found in ebay one similar model with region 0, so maybe there is a way to get it.

Im not sure what the new firmware corrects...havent noticed any major changes. As far as the "service menu" goes if it is connected to the region code than selecting the number 9 would be equal to region 0, but Im not sure if thats what this menu is for. I wouldnt mess with anything untill someone is able to find out what this menu really is.