Sony Expands Cloud Gaming on PlayStation Portal
Although Google’s Stadia has faded away, cloud gaming continues to grow. Sony is enhancing its PlayStation Portal handheld by fully integrating cloud gaming capabilities for users.
About PlayStation Portal
The PlayStation Portal is a handheld device similar in concept to the Steam Deck. However, it does not operate independently; instead, it streams content from a user’s PlayStation 5 console. Until now, this limited the device's functionality to remote play only.
New Cloud Gaming Features
- From today, PlayStation Portal owners can access select digital PS5 games from their own library through cloud gaming without needing direct connection to a PlayStation 5 console.
- Users gain access to a cloud-streamed catalog of PlayStation games via PlayStation Plus.
- The device update introduces a new “Cloud Streaming home screen” and a search feature, allowing players to find games they own or can play through PlayStation Plus on the handheld.
Additional Improvements
- Support for 3D Audio enhances the immersive gaming experience.
- A passcode lock feature increases security for the device.
- A network status page has been added, addressing a previously missing functionality that helps users monitor their connection.
“Starting today, all PlayStation Portal owners will be able to use cloud gaming on the handheld, accessing select digital PS5 games from their own library without needing a PlayStation 5 via Remote Play.”
The new features require an $18/month subscription to PlayStation Plus for cloud gaming access.
Author’s summary: Sony’s PlayStation Portal now supports cloud gaming, enabling hands-free access to select PS5 titles via an $18/month subscription, plus added features like 3D Audio and enhanced security.