Sony is introducing a new update for PlayStation Portal users engaged in its Cloud Streaming Beta, enhancing the user experience and functionality of the remote play system. This update, set to roll out later today, brings several exciting features to the platform.
One of the key additions is the ability to sort games within the Cloud Streaming Beta catalog. Players can now organize their games by Name, Release Date, or according to the most recent additions to PlayStation Plus, making it easier to navigate and find their desired titles.
Another significant update is the introduction of gameplay capture during Cloud Streaming sessions. Users can access the create menu to take screenshots or record video clips, with Sony supporting video clips up to 1920x1080 resolution and up to three minutes in length.
Furthermore, gameplay will now pause automatically when you open the PS Portal quick menu, enter rest mode using the power button, or if a system error message appears. However, the rest mode pause is limited to 15 seconds; if the Portal remains in rest mode longer than that, the cloud streaming session will disconnect. It's worth noting that pausing won't be available during online multiplayer sessions.
Additional enhancements include a queue system for when the streaming server reaches capacity, notifications for inactivity, and new user feedback tools. Sony has expressed its commitment to continuously improving the platform based on user feedback.
The Cloud Streaming Beta is exclusively available to PlayStation Plus Premium members, allowing them to stream select PS5 games from the PS Plus Catalog directly on the PS Portal. Last year's update transformed the Portal into a more independent cloud streaming device, and Sony seems poised to further refine this feature moving forward.
As cloud streaming becomes increasingly integral to the gaming ecosystem, it will be fascinating to see how Sony's offerings evolve in tandem with the PlayStation Portal. For now, the ability to capture numerous screenshots during streaming sessions adds a delightful touch to the experience.
