Sony PlayStation Portal becomes a standalone cloud console - but not for everyone

Sony has released an update for the PlayStation Portal, elevating the accessory for PS5 to a new level. However, this comes at a cost.

The PlayStation Portal device allows PS5 owners to stream their games from the console to a compact 1080p screen, making it possible to play without occupying the TV or even while in bed. With this update, the Portal has effectively "untethered" the PS5, transforming it into a portable cloud console. But in addition to purchasing the device, users will also need to buy a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription. Owners of both can play "selected PS5 games" from the PS Plus game catalog via the cloud, even without a PS5.

The Cloud Streaming mode is currently in beta. Features available during the testing phase may change over time and differ in the final version. Right now, Sony offers the following capabilities:

• Cloud access to over 120 games from the PlayStation Plus catalog in 1080p/60fps resolution, including titles like Dave the Diver, Ghost of Tsushima, Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Monster Hunter Rise, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart.
• Cloud storage of up to 100 GB for game data and progress with automatic synchronization between portable and standard consoles.

The following conditions are required to launch the cloud mode:

• Active membership in PlayStation Plus Premium
• Access to broadband internet via Wi-Fi
• Speed of at least 7 Mbps for streaming in 720p
• Speed of at least 13 Mbps for streaming in 1080p

Game trials, the ability to stream games purchased in the PS Store, system features like Party voice chat and game invites for selected games, the "Create" button, 3D audio, and in-game commerce — all of these are currently unavailable during the "early stages of public access."

Once the beta version becomes available, it can be accessed through Quick Menu > Settings > Cloud Streaming (Beta). In addition to cloud streaming, the latest update for the Sony PlayStation Portal also introduces various "audio signal enhancements."

The PlayStation Plus Premium plan is offered in the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Cyprus, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.