According to Digital Trends, PlayStation Portal just received its most important update since launch with cloud streaming now live for PS Plus Premium members. The feature allows users to stream compatible PS5 digital games directly from Sony’s servers without requiring their PS5 console to be turned on or nearby. Major titles like Astro Bot, Borderlands 4, and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are among the supported games available for instant streaming. Sony has also refreshed the Portal’s interface with separate tabs for Remote Play and Cloud Streaming, plus added 3D audio support and clearer connection indicators. The update is rolling out globally across supported regions including the U.S., UK, Canada, and parts of Europe.
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Finally, A Real Upgrade
Look, the Portal has always been a weird product. It’s basically a DualSense controller with a screen slapped in the middle, and until now, it was completely dependent on your PS5 being awake and connected to decent internet. That made it feel more like an expensive accessory than a proper handheld.
This cloud streaming update changes everything. Suddenly, you can actually use this thing when you’re away from home, when someone else is using your TV, or when your PS5 is turned off. That’s huge. It transforms the Portal from a niche remote play device into something that can genuinely compete with other cloud gaming handhelds like the Logitech G Cloud.
But Here’s The Catch
Now, let’s talk about the limitations because there are plenty. First, you need PS Plus Premium, which costs $18 per month or $160 annually. That’s not cheap, especially when you’re already paying for the Portal itself at $200.
Then there’s the game selection. Sony says you can stream “compatible PS5 digital games,” but that wording makes me nervous. Basically, don’t expect your entire library to work. They’re being vague about what “compatible” actually means, and regional licensing could block certain titles in different countries.
And let’s not forget the internet requirements. Sony recommends at least 15Mbps, but anyone who’s tried cloud gaming knows that’s the absolute bare minimum. For a smooth experience, you’re probably looking at 25Mbps or higher, plus low latency. Good luck finding that on public Wi-Fi or while traveling.
Should You Actually Care?
Here’s the thing: this feels like Sony playing catch-up rather than innovating. Microsoft has had cloud gaming on multiple devices for years through Xbox Cloud Gaming. Nintendo’s been doing cloud versions of major games on Switch. Sony is late to this party, and they’re making you pay a premium price for the privilege.
I’m also skeptical about how well this will actually work in practice. The Portal uses Wi-Fi only – no cellular option – so you’re completely dependent on finding good Wi-Fi wherever you go. And Sony’s track record with streaming services hasn’t exactly been stellar. Remember PlayStation Now? Exactly.
Still, if you’re already invested in the PlayStation ecosystem and travel frequently, this could be a game-changer. Being able to jump into your PS5 games without downloads or storage concerns is genuinely appealing. Just temper your expectations and maybe wait to see how reliable the service actually is before getting too excited.
What Comes Next
If you want to try this out, head to your Portal’s settings and update the system software. The new cloud streaming tab should appear once you’re updated. But honestly? I’d recommend checking Sony’s official streaming page first to see if your favorite games are actually supported.
This move definitely strengthens PlayStation’s cloud ambitions and makes PS Plus Premium more valuable. But it also feels like Sony is testing the waters rather than fully committing. Will they expand this to phones and tablets next? Probably. But for now, they’re keeping it exclusive to their own hardware.
Basically, this is a step in the right direction, but it’s coming with enough caveats to make me wonder if it’s really ready for prime time. What do you think – is cloud streaming enough to make the Portal worth buying now?
