PlayStation Portal Update Adds Cloud Streaming Beta and Enhanced Audio Features

Sony’s PlayStation Portal, the handheld remote-play device designed to deliver console-quality gaming on the go, is receiving a significant update. Starting today (and rolling out in Europe on Wednesday), the update includes audio refinements and introduces a beta for cloud streaming via PlayStation Plus Premium. This marks a major step in making the PS Portal a more versatile and independent gaming device.

Audio Enhancements

The update brings refinements to the audio experience, including:

• Speaker Audio Adjustment: A new setting ensures the speaker volume lowers further when set to a minimum.
• PlayStation Link Device Settings: For a more personalized experience, you can adjust volume and sidetone directly from the PS Portal settings menu.

These improvements address user feedback, making the device’s audio features even more user-friendly.

Cloud Streaming Beta on PS Portal

One of the most exciting additions is the Cloud Streaming Beta, exclusive to PlayStation Plus Premium members. This new feature allows select PS5 games from the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog to be streamed directly to the PS Portal, no PS5 console required.

Key Features During the Beta:

• Access to 120+ PS5 Games: Popular titles such as Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Monster Hunter Rise, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and Dave the Diver can be streamed in up to 1080p/60fps.
• DualSense Features: The PS Portal touchscreen offers haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, motion sensors, and an emulated touchpad.
• Cloud Storage Integration: Sync saved data and game progress seamlessly between the cloud and your PS5 console.
• Global Availability: The beta is available in several regions, including the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and much of Europe.

How to Join the Beta:

1. Ensure you have the latest system update for the PS Portal.
2. Access “Quick Menu” > “Settings.”
3. Select “Cloud Streaming (Beta)” and toggle it on.
4. Once activated, a new option for cloud streaming access will appear on the Home screen.

System Requirements for Cloud Streaming

• PlayStation Portal: Required for participation.
• PlayStation Plus Premium Membership: Grants access to the beta.
• Stable Internet Connection:
  • Minimum 5 Mbps for basic streaming.
  • 13 Mbps is recommended for 1080p streaming.

Limitations of the Beta

As this is an early-stage beta, certain features will not yet be available:

• Unavailable Features:
  • Game Trials and streaming purchased PS Store games.
  • PS4 and PS3 game streaming.
  • Party voice chat, game invites, and in-game commerce.
• Games Limited to PS5 Titles: The current beta supports only PS5 games, with no backward compatibility for older titles.

Sony is actively gathering feedback to expand and improve these features in the future.

What’s Next for PS Portal?

This update underscores Sony’s commitment to evolving the PS Portal’s capabilities. By introducing cloud streaming, Sony is positioning the device as a more versatile handheld gaming solution, catering to gamers who value flexibility and accessibility.

As Sony continues to refine the beta and gather community input, the PS Portal is on track to become an even more powerful tool for PlayStation fans.