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Sony is gearing up to unveil its highly anticipated portable PlayStation later this year, introducing the PlayStation Portal remote gaming device. This handheld gadget is set to seamlessly stream PS5 games over Wi-Fi, boasting an expansive eight-inch LCD screen that operates at a crisp 1080p resolution, maintaining a fluid 60fps. With a price tag of $199.99, the PlayStation Portal is poised for release later this year.
Hideaki Nishino, Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Senior Vice President of Platform Experience, elaborated, “The PlayStation Portal will establish a remote connection with your PS5 via Wi-Fi, affording you the agility to effortlessly transition from gaming on your PS5 to the PlayStation Portal itself.” He went on to highlight that the PlayStation Portal will have the capacity to run compatible games present on your PS5 and is attuned to the functionalities of the DualSense controller.
The PlayStation Portal boasts conspicuous controllers on its flanks, resembling Sony’s well-acclaimed PS5 DualSense controllers. Engineered with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, the experience of playing PS5 games mirrors that of the dedicated DualSense controller. Additionally, the PlayStation Portal extends its utility to media playback, as its home screen dedicates a segment to this function by replicating your PS5’s media content. However, it’s worth noting that the device lacks the capability for local execution, leaving those without Wi-Fi in a bind.
Price
Interestingly, this $199.99 handheld device won’t be compatible with Sony’s forthcoming cloud streaming service for PS5 games. Sony stated, “Games that necessitate streaming on PS5 via a PS Plus Premium membership won’t be compatible.” Consequently, the PlayStation Portal primarily serves as a conduit for streaming pre-installed PS5 games from your personal console to the handheld device for remote play. A stable internet connection with a minimum speed of 5Mbps is required, with Sony recommending a speed of 15Mbps for optimal performance.
IGN was granted an early trial of the PlayStation Portal, and in a hands-on video, Tech Editor Bo Moore expressed that he didn’t discern any noticeable latency while using the handheld. This aspect holds substantial importance, as wireless game streaming over Wi-Fi networks still presents imperfections for numerous users.
Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, the PlayStation Portal omits Bluetooth support, thereby precluding the connection of wireless headphones or Sony’s renowned Pulse 3D headset. Instead, it adopts PlayStation Link wireless technology – an innovative proprietary standard tailored for PlayStation devices. This technology is engineered for minimal latency and lossless audio transmission. Accompanying the launch of the PlayStation Portal is a wireless headset and earbuds compatible with PlayStation Link.
While these new audio peripherals can be employed with a PS5 through a USB adapter, speculation about an impending PS5 “Slim” model raises the possibility of PlayStation Link integration in forthcoming PS5 iterations. This standard will also be accessible to third-party manufacturers. To cater to wired audio preferences, the PlayStation Portal includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Battery
Reports from IGN indicate that the battery size of the PlayStation Portal remains undecided, thus leaving the device’s runtime undetermined. CNET suggests that Sony aims for battery performance akin to the DualSense controller, approximately seven to nine hours.
The PlayStation Portal, previously codenamed Project Q, was officially unveiled in May after months of speculation. While an exact launch date for the PlayStation Portal remains undisclosed by Sony, the confirmed price point stands at $199.99, raising the anticipation among PlayStation enthusiasts.
PlayStation Portal FAQ
What is the PlayStation Portal?
The PlayStation Portal is Sony’s upcoming portable gaming device that enables you to stream PS5 games over Wi-Fi. It boasts an eight-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 1080p at 60fps, ensuring an immersive gaming experience on the move.
How much does the PlayStation Portal cost?
The PlayStation Portal comes with a price tag of $199.99.
When will the PlayStation Portal be available?
Sony is set to launch the PlayStation Portal later this year, although the exact release date remains undisclosed.
How does the PlayStation Portal connect to the PS5?
The PlayStation Portal establishes a remote connection to your PS5 via Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless switching between gameplay on your PS5 and the handheld device. It functions as an extension of your PS5 gaming experience.
Can I play all PS5 games on the PlayStation Portal?
The PlayStation Portal supports compatible games that are already installed on your PS5 console. It grants you the capability to enjoy your existing PS5 game library on the portable device.
What controllers does the PlayStation Portal use?
Featuring controllers on each side reminiscent of Sony’s PS5 DualSense controllers, the PlayStation Portal provides adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, delivering a gaming experience akin to employing the dedicated DualSense controller.
Can I use the PlayStation Portal for media playback?
Certainly, the PlayStation Portal offers a dedicated section on its homescreen for media playback. It mirrors the media content on your PS5, providing a multimedia experience alongside gaming.
Does the PlayStation Portal require an internet connection?
Indeed, the PlayStation Portal necessitates an internet connection to stream games from your PS5. Sony recommends a minimum internet speed of 5Mbps, with 15Mbps advised for optimal performance.
Can I use the PlayStation Portal for cloud streaming of PS5 games?
No, the PlayStation Portal does not support Sony’s cloud streaming service for PS5 games that necessitate a PS Plus Premium membership.
How long does the battery of the PlayStation Portal last?
The precise battery size and runtime of the PlayStation Portal are still being finalized. However, reports suggest Sony aims for a battery life akin to the DualSense controller, approximately seven to nine hours.
Can I connect wireless headphones to the PlayStation Portal?
No, the PlayStation Portal lacks Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphones or headsets. Instead, it relies on Sony’s proprietary PlayStation Link wireless technology.
Will there be compatible audio peripherals for the PlayStation Portal?
Absolutely, Sony plans to launch a wireless headset and earbuds that support the PlayStation Link wireless technology. These peripherals can also be used with a PS5 through a USB adapter.
Is PlayStation Link wireless technology exclusive to the PlayStation Portal?
No, Sony intends to extend the availability of the PlayStation Link wireless technology to third-party manufacturers for incorporation into their devices.
Is there a wired audio option for the PlayStation Portal?
Yes, the PlayStation Portal is equipped with a 3.5mm headphone jack, enabling users to connect wired headphones or earphones for audio output.
Was the PlayStation Portal previously known by another name?
Indeed, the PlayStation Portal was initially referred to as Project Q. It was officially unveiled in May, building anticipation for its impending release later in the year.
