PlayStation Portal Introduces Cloud Gaming
The PlayStation Portal, a handheld console that has received little attention, is finally gaining cloud gaming capabilities. Sony aims to enhance the device by allowing users to stream games from the cloud.
Background and Market Context
The Steam Deck has been a major success, inspiring many companies to create their own handheld gaming devices. Its appeal lies in the ability to play games virtually anywhere, from places like the bathroom or a plane.
By last summer, only 3% of PlayStation 5 owners had purchased a PlayStation Portal. The device depends on an existing PlayStation 5 console and essentially streams its games to the handheld, so it is not fully standalone.
New Cloud Gaming Feature
Sony recently announced that PlayStation Portal users can now access cloud gaming. This feature allows streaming of select digital PS5 games from the user's own library through PlayStation Plus, without needing to connect to the console itself.
“PlayStation Portal owners can now use cloud gaming, including select digital PS5 games from their own library and cloud streaming through PlayStation Plus — but without the requirement of connecting to the console itself.”
Access and Subscription Requirements
Cloud gaming on the PlayStation Portal requires a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, Sony's highest tier, costing $17.99 per month or $159.99 per year. Existing subscribers will find this update significantly enhances the Portal's functionality.
“PlayStation Portal owners can only access cloud gaming if they have a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription — Sony’s highest subscription tier that’s $17.99 a month (or $159.99 a year).”
Summary
This update transforms the PlayStation Portal from a simple streaming screen into a more versatile device, expanding gaming possibilities without needing the PS5 console constantly connected.
Author's summary: Sony’s PlayStation Portal now supports cloud gaming, but only for PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers, turning the device into a more flexible gaming option beyond basic remote play.