Introducing Cloud Streaming for PlayStation Portal
After much anticipation, Sony officially launched the PlayStation Portal, a device designed to enhance remote gaming experiences by integrating a DualSense controller with a built-in screen. This innovation allows gamers to stream their PlayStation 5 (PS5) titles seamlessly across their home network using Wi-Fi. Despite its revolutionary design, the PlayStation Portal faced criticism, particularly regarding its $200 price tag and absence of cloud streaming capabilities—a service already available to subscribers of the PlayStation Plus Premium tier.
Exciting New Feature: Cloud Streaming Update
In a surprising announcement today, November 19, Sony revealed that cloud streaming is on the way. A system update is being released that introduces this feature in beta, alongside enhancements for audio controls catering to lower volume preferences. This update marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the PlayStation Portal.
What to Expect from the Cloud Streaming Beta
During this initial beta phase, cloud streaming will be accessible for a selection of 120 PS5 games, all supporting impressive resolutions of up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. Additionally, core DualSense features—including haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, built-in speakers, motion sensors, and touchpad functionality—will be functional in any game that supports these features. Players can also expect seamless save synchronization through the PlayStation Plus Cloud storage service.
PlayStation Plus Premium: Essential Access
To take advantage of the cloud streaming beta, users must hold an active PlayStation Plus Premium membership, which is available only in select regions, including:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Cyprus, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and United States.
Minimum Requirements for Participation
Participants looking to join the beta need to meet certain minimum requirements:
- A PlayStation Portal remote player device
- A registered PlayStation Network account
- An active PlayStation Plus Premium membership
- Access to a broadband Wi-Fi connection
- For successful cloud streaming, a minimum upload and download speed of:
- 5 Mbps for establishing a cloud streaming session
- 7 Mbps for streaming at 720p
- 13 Mbps for streaming at 1080p
Activating the Cloud Streaming Feature
Those interested in participating in the beta will need to update their system software to the latest version. Afterward, they can navigate to Settings and toggle the “Cloud Streaming (Beta)”option to ON. Upon completing these steps, the Home screen will reveal the new cloud streaming feature.
Limitations of the Beta Program
It is important to note that streaming will be exclusively available for PS5 games, and users will not have access to titles from previous generations such as PS3 or PS4. Additionally, features such as “Game Trials,” purchased games from the PlayStation Store, certain system functionalities like Party voice chat and game invites for select titles, as well as 3D audio and in-game purchases, will not be supported during this beta iteration.
For further details on this exciting development, visit the official announcement.
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