PlayStation Portal bundle home screen while turned on.Sony expands PlayStation Portal functionality with a new cloud streaming beta, enabling PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers to stream select PS5 games without a console. This update, launching Wednesday, also includes audio enhancements. The beta’s duration remains undisclosed, but Sony encourages user feedback for ongoing improvements.
Cloud Streaming Details and Limitations
The cloud streaming feature, detailed in a PlayStation Blog post, offers access to approximately 120 PS5 games within the PlayStation Plus catalog. Titles like Dave the Diver, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, and Ghost of Tsushima are included, specifically their PS5 versions. While streaming, players can enjoy the full range of DualSense controller features, including haptic feedback.
Streaming Quality and Requirements
Cloud streaming on the PlayStation Portal supports up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second. A minimum internet connection speed of 13 Mbps is required for 1080p streaming. While the PS5 Pro offers 4K streaming, the Portal’s cloud-based approach necessitates certain limitations due to internet connection dependencies.
Feature Exclusions
Currently, the beta doesn’t support streaming games owned outside the PS Plus library, game trials, party voice chat, or 3D audio. Its focus remains solely on streaming PS Plus catalog games to the Portal device.
PlayStation Portal in the Handheld Gaming Landscape
The PlayStation Portal occupies a unique position among handheld gaming devices. Its relatively low price point compared to competitors is appealing, but its streaming-only functionality targets a niche audience, albeit a dedicated one. Initially requiring a powered-on PS5 for streaming, this beta introduces direct streaming from PlayStation servers, similar to services like Nvidia GeForce Now.
Conclusion: Expanding the Portal’s Potential
The introduction of cloud streaming significantly expands the PlayStation Portal’s utility for PS Plus Premium subscribers. While limitations exist regarding resolution, game selection, and certain features, the beta offers a promising glimpse into the future of portable PlayStation gaming. This update reinforces Sony’s commitment to enhancing the Portal’s capabilities based on user feedback and evolving technology.
