Sony has released a significant update for the PlayStation Portal remote player, adding cloud streaming capabilities. This update transforms the device into a versatile handheld console for playing PlayStation 5 games remotely, even without a PS5.
PlayStation Portal Gains Cloud Streaming: A Game Changer for Portable Gaming
Cloud Streaming Beta
The update, which began rolling out on November 19th, 2024, includes a beta version of cloud streaming for PlayStation Portal. This feature allows users to stream a selection of PS5 games from the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog without needing to own a PS5 console.
Requirements for Cloud Streaming:
- PlayStation Portal with the latest system software update
- PlayStation Plus Premium subscription
- Stable internet connection with at least 5 Mbps download speed
How to Enable Cloud Streaming on PlayStation Portal
- Open the Quick Menu on your PlayStation Portal.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Cloud Streaming (Beta) and toggle it on.
Playing PS5 Games Without a PS5
With this update, you can now stream PS5 games without owning a PS5 console. Simply use your PlayStation Portal with an active PlayStation Plus Premium subscription and a good internet connection. You can access a growing library of PS5 games from the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog.
Playing PlayStation Portal Away From Home
The cloud streaming feature allows you to play PlayStation Portal away from home. You can access your games from anywhere with a stable internet connection. This makes the PlayStation Portal a truly portable gaming device.
Benefits of Cloud Streaming on PlayStation Portal
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Play anywhere | Enjoy PS5 games on the go without a PS5 console. |
| Expanded game library | Access a wider selection of games. |
| Enhanced versatility | Use the PlayStation Portal as both a remote player and a cloud gaming device. |
Important Considerations
- Internet speed: A faster internet connection provides a better streaming experience.
- Beta limitations: Cloud streaming is still in beta, so expect occasional issues or limited functionality.
- Game availability: Not all PS5 games are available for cloud streaming.
This update makes the PlayStation Portal a more appealing device for gamers. It offers more flexibility and expands the gaming possibilities for PlayStation Plus Premium members.
Playstation Blog Post: https://blog.playstation.com/2024/11/19/the-playstation-portal-remote-player-experience-to-evolve-with-new-system-update/
Other Cloud Gaming Services
Cloud gaming is a growing trend in the gaming industry. It allows you to play games without needing expensive hardware. Here are some other popular cloud gaming services:
- Xbox Cloud Gaming: Play Xbox games on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and PCs.
- NVIDIA GeForce NOW: Stream a library of PC games to your devices.
- Amazon Luna: Play a curated selection of games on various devices.
- Google Stadia: ( Note: Google Stadia was discontinued on January 18, 2023, but is mentioned here for historical context and comparison)
Each service has its own strengths and weaknesses. Consider factors such as game availability, pricing, and device compatibility when choosing a cloud gaming service.
PS Portal Cloud Streaming Update
Sony has released a significant update for the PlayStation Portal. This handheld device now offers cloud streaming capabilities. Users can play select PS5 games without needing a PlayStation 5 console.
The update brings new flexibility to Portal owners. Previously, the device required a PS5 for remote play. Now, it can function more independently. This change addresses a major critique of the Portal since its launch in November 2023.
To use cloud streaming, players need a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription. The feature is currently in beta. It’s available in many countries where PS Plus Premium is offered. These include the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, and several European nations.
The cloud streaming beta has some limitations:
- Only PS5 games are supported
- PS4 and PS3 games are not available
- Some features are not yet implemented
Missing features include:
- Game trials
- Party voice chat
- 3D audio
- In-game transactions
- Create button functionality
Sony may add these features later. The company is likely gathering feedback during the beta phase.
To access cloud streaming, Portal owners must update their device’s system software. The update process is straightforward:
- Open the Quick Menu
- Navigate to Settings
- Select Cloud Streaming (Beta)
- Toggle on the Cloud Streaming option
After enabling the beta, users can stream compatible games from the PS Plus game catalog. This expands the Portal’s utility. It’s no longer just a remote play device for PS5 owners.
The update also improves the Portal’s volume control. Sony has added a lower minimum volume setting. This enhancement offers more flexibility for users in different environments.
Cloud streaming on the Portal has potential benefits:
- Play without a PS5 console
- No need to install games on a PS5
- Gaming isn’t limited by PS5 storage space
- Performance doesn’t depend on home internet connection
However, players should consider:
- A strong internet connection is still necessary
- Possible latency issues with cloud gaming
- Limited game selection compared to full PS5 library
The Portal’s price remains $200. This cost may be more appealing now that the device has increased functionality. For some, it could serve as an alternative to buying a full PS5 console.
Prospective buyers should weigh their gaming needs:
| Consideration | PS Portal | PS5 Console |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Game Library | Limited | Full |
| Portability | High | Low |
| Performance | Varies | Consistent |
| Offline Play | No | Yes |
The cloud streaming update marks a shift in Sony’s approach to the Portal. It addresses user feedback and expands the device’s capabilities. This change could make the Portal more attractive to a wider audience of PlayStation fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PS Plus Premium and its connection to PlayStation Portal?
PS Plus Premium is Sony’s top-tier subscription service. It offers cloud streaming for select PS5 games. The PlayStation Portal can now use this feature, allowing gameplay without a PS5 console.
What’s new in the latest PlayStation Portal update?
The recent update enables PS Portal users to stream certain PS5 games directly from the cloud. This removes the need for a PS5 console to play these games on the handheld device.
How to use PlayStation Portal for remote gaming?
Users can now access PlayStation games remotely through the Portal. This requires a stable internet connection and a PS Plus Premium subscription. Games stream directly to the device from Sony’s servers.
What steps are needed to stream games on PS Portal?
- Update the PlayStation Portal software
- Subscribe to PS Plus Premium
- Connect to a stable internet network
- Select a compatible game from the cloud library
- Start streaming and playing
Can you play multiplayer games on PS Portal without a PS5?
Yes, multiplayer gaming is possible on PS Portal without a PS5. Cloud-streamed games support online multiplayer features. Players can join matches and play with others as they would on a console.
What do you need to use the PlayStation Portal service?
- A PlayStation Portal device
- PS Plus Premium subscription
- Stable internet connection (preferably high-speed)
- Compatible PS5 games available for cloud streaming
- Sony account in good standing
