Just over a year ago, Sony launched the PlayStation Portal remote player, aiming to deliver a console-quality gaming experience on a handheld device. The response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive, validating Sony’s vision for the future of gaming.
Now, Sony is rolling out a system software update for the PS Portal, packed with new features, audio refinements, and a much-anticipated beta for cloud streaming. Let’s dive into the details.
Audio Enhancements in the Latest Update
The update introduces key refinements to improve the audio experience:
- Speaker Volume Adjustment: The speaker volume can now be set lower when adjusted to the minimum level, offering finer control.
- PlayStation Link Device Settings: Users can optimize the volume and sidetone volume directly from the PS Portal Settings menu.
Introducing Cloud Streaming (Beta)
For the first time, PS Portal will support cloud streaming, currently available in beta for PlayStation Plus Premium members. This feature allows users to stream select PS5 games directly from PlayStation servers, eliminating the need for a PS5 console.
What to Expect During the Beta
- Stream Select PS5 Titles: Over 120 PS5 games from the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog will be available for streaming, including popular titles like:
- Dave the Diver
- Ghost of Tsushima
- Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales
- Monster Hunter Rise
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
- 1080p/60fps Streaming: Enjoy high-quality streaming up to 1080p resolution at 60fps.
- DualSense Features: Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, motion sensors, and the touchpad (emulated on the PS Portal’s touchscreen) are supported.
- Cloud Storage: Save up to 100GB of game progress, automatically synced with your PS5 console for seamless transitions.
Availability and Requirements for Cloud Streaming (Beta)
Supported Regions
The beta is accessible in several regions, including:
- Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, United States, and more.
Requirements
To participate, you’ll need:
- A PlayStation Portal remote player.
- An account for PlayStation Network.
- An active PlayStation Plus Premium membership.
- A broadband Wi-Fi connection with:
- 5 Mbps minimum for basic streaming.
- 7 Mbps for 720p streaming.
- 13 Mbps for 1080p streaming.
How to Access the Beta
- Update your PS Portal to the latest software.
- Open the “Quick Menu” and navigate to “Settings.”
- Select the “Cloud Streaming (Beta)” option.
- Toggle the feature ON (it’s off by default).
Once enabled, a new Cloud Streaming option will appear on your Home screen. You can disable it anytime to revert to the standard experience.
Beta Limitations
Since the feature is in its early stages, some functionalities will not be available:
- Game Trials and PS Store-purchased game streaming.
- Support for PS4 and PS3 games.
- Party voice chat, game invites for select games, and the Create button.
- Features like 3D audio and in-game commerce.
Looking Ahead
The addition of cloud streaming is a significant step for PS Portal, and Sony is committed to refining this feature based on community feedback. While still in beta, it’s an exciting glimpse into the future of handheld gaming.
If you’re a PlayStation Plus Premium member, this is your chance to explore the possibilities of next-gen handheld gaming and shape its development.
For more information on PlayStation Plus and the Game Catalog, visit PlayStation Plus.
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