Tag: PlayStation Portal

  • Best Gaming Pillow for Handheld Comfort in Bed

    Key Takeaway

    – Reduces hand strain and numbness by transferring device weight from hands to the pillow.
    – Supports multiple handhelds (Steam Deck, Switch, ROG Ally, etc.) with a multi-adjustable arm.
    – Has drawbacks: slight wobble from the mount and pillow losing shape over time.
    – Limits freedom of movement compared to playing without support.
    – Priced at $66.80–$74.99, with cheaper alternatives like U-shaped or nursing pillows available.

    Gaming Discomfort Solution

    Anyone who plays on handheld devices for longer sessions knows the problem: after a while, you start shaking out your hands. The reason is usually the fixed posture. Holding a handheld in the same position for extended periods can strain the joints and muscles, potentially compressing nerves and blood vessels. The result can be tingling, numbness or hands that feel like they are falling asleep. Mechanism’s Gaming Pillow is designed to address exactly that.

    Compatibility and Design

    The pillow is available with mounts for the Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go S, Nintendo Switch, ROG Ally, ROG Ally X and PlayStation Portal. The handheld attaches to a multi-adjustable support arm, allowing users to position it for sitting or lying down. A second mount on top of the pillow can hold a power bank or smartphone.

    User Testing Results

    A Reddit user tested the accessory with the Steam Deck for around two weeks and came away cautiously positive, giving it 7.5 out of 10 points. According to the user, the pillow noticeably reduces strain when gaming in bed or on the sofa because the handheld’s weight no longer rests entirely on the hands, arms and elbows. This should also help reduce tingling and numbness. However, the mounting mechanism reportedly wobbles slightly, and the pillow is said to lose its shape rather quickly.

    Community Feedback

    The Reddit thread is not unanimously positive. Some users argue that while the pillow may relieve strain on the arms and hands, it can also limit freedom of movement. Others point to cheaper alternatives such as U-shaped pillows or nursing pillows. On Mechanism’s website, the accessory starts at $66.80, depending on the configuration. On Amazon, the pillow is currently listed for $74.99, though only for the Steam Deck, Lenovo Legion Go S and PlayStation Portal.

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  • Sony Enhances PS Portal by Fixing Major Shortcoming

    Sony Enhances PS Portal by Fixing Major Shortcoming

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation Portal now features a 1080p High Quality mode, enhancing picture quality and streaming performance for PS5 games.
    2. Launched in November 2023, the PS Portal was initially viewed as a secondary device for PS5 users, lacking its own cloud features.
    3. Since November 2025, the introduction of cloud streaming for PlayStation Plus Premium members has led to a 162% increase in cloud-streaming users.
    4. The new update boosts the streaming bitrate from 15 to 25 Mbit/s, resulting in clearer images and low latency during Remote Play.
    5. There are ongoing discussions about a potential new handheld console from Sony that could run PS5 games natively and possibly replace some functions of the PS Portal.

    The PlayStation Portal is starting to look more like a serious handheld gaming device. Sony seems eager to boost this momentum with a recent update, which enhances the streaming handheld’s picture quality. This update brings a new 1080p High Quality mode that increases the bitrate, allowing games like Cyberpunk 2077 and God of War Ragnarök to appear sharper and clearer overall.

    Launch and Initial Reception

    Launched in November 2023, the PS Portal was mainly seen as a fun add-on for PS5 users. It allows players to stream PS5 games from their console through Remote Play while on the move. However, many gamers found this feature less appealing since the Portal lacked its own cloud features, making it heavily reliant on the home PS5 for functionality.

    Growth in Cloud Streaming

    Since November 2025, PlayStation Plus Premium members have been able to stream selected digital PS5 games directly from the cloud. This change, along with other enhancements, has reportedly led to a significant increase in user numbers. As per Sony, the count of cloud-streaming users surged by 162 percent in January 2026 compared to the previous year. Additionally, over half of PS Portal users are now PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers. A Premium subscription is still required for cloud streaming on the Portal.

    Improved Streaming Experience

    The new 1080p High Quality mode boosts the maximum streaming bitrate from 15 to 25 Mbit/s, making images look much sharper and detailed. PurePSX conducted a hands-on test and confirmed that image quality was clearer, especially during local Remote Play sessions. The latency was impressively low, measuring just one to two milliseconds in some cases. While games streamed from the cloud also looked sharper, the delay was a bit higher, typically around 20 to 30 milliseconds. Overall, this update should provide a significant enhancement for users, particularly for those who frequently use the Portal for Remote Play.

    Looking ahead, the pressing question is if Sony will maintain this direction consistently. Users on Reddit have responded positively to the update, but many are also eager for further improvements in streaming quality or new features like PS4 streaming. This interest grows with rumors of a new handheld console from Sony, which has been discussed since late 2024. It is said that this new device will run PlayStation 5 games natively and could potentially take over some of the streaming tasks currently managed by the PS Portal (priced at $260 on Amazon). Alternatively, Sony might opt for two distinct systems: one dedicated to native gaming on the go and another focused on Remote Play and cloud streaming.

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  • DIY Portable PlayStation 4 Handheld Console with OLED Screen

    DIY Portable PlayStation 4 Handheld Console with OLED Screen

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s PlayStation Portal is a streaming device for PS5 games, lacking local processing power.
    2. A modder created a DIY PlayStation 4 Slim handheld, but it is not available for sale.
    3. The handheld features a modified PS4 Slim mainboard for improved energy efficiency and cooling.
    4. It has a 7-inch OLED screen with 1080p resolution and multiple USB ports for storage expansion.
    5. Battery life is limited, lasting up to 3 hours for less intense games and about 1.5 hours for demanding games.

    Back in the past, Sony’s PSP and PS Vita were rivaling in the handheld market. Nowadays, the Japanese brand presents the rather unusual PlayStation Portal (starting at $199 on Amazon). This gadget lacks the necessary computing power for local video game processing; instead, it’s made for streaming games from a PlayStation 5 console or through the cloud. Recently, a modder has displayed his unique PlayStation 4 Slim handheld, which is not available for sale but is a personal DIY venture. As of now, there’s no in-depth guide to create this handheld, and no 3D print models have been released yet.

    A Unique Foundation

    This device is built on the mainboard of the Sony PlayStation 4 Slim. The component has been modified, which is quite common for projects like this. The tricky part is to eliminate only the unnecessary pieces, but the user known as “wewillmakeitnow” also aimed to enhance the console’s energy efficiency and cooling. According to his remarks, he has improved heat dissipation and airflow.

    Features and Performance

    He chose a 7-inch OLED screen with a 1080p resolution for this handheld. It can connect to external monitors and has multiple USB ports that can be utilized for attaching an external hard drive to expand storage. The promised battery life isn’t particularly impressive, but it might still be functional. With less intensive games, this PS4 Slim handheld is said to last up to three hours. However, more demanding games will drain the 130Wh battery in about 1.5 hours.

    Reddit

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  • PlayStation Portal May Receive OLED Upgrade in Next Refresh

    PlayStation Portal May Receive OLED Upgrade in Next Refresh

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony may be planning an update for the PlayStation Portal, potentially introducing a new version with an OLED display.
    2. The rumored device, referred to as the PlayStation Portal Pro, could feature a 120Hz refresh rate.
    3. Switching to an OLED panel would significantly improve display quality with better blacks, contrast, and colors compared to the current LCD.
    4. The rumor follows a recent major update that added cloud streaming capabilities for PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers.
    5. There are currently no official confirmations from Sony regarding the new device, its release date, or pricing.

    A recent rumor has surfaced indicating that Sony might be considering an update for its handheld remote play gadget, the PlayStation Portal. An online post from Zuby_Tech on X suggests that the company is possibly working on a new version that would come equipped with an OLED display.

    Exciting Speculations

    The leak also mentions that this new screen could feature a 120Hz refresh rate. Zuby_Tech has dubbed this rumored enhancement as the PlayStation Portal Pro, although Sony hasn’t officially verified the name or the existence of the device itself.

    Major Upgrade Potential

    If this rumor holds any weight, switching to an OLED panel would mark a significant improvement over the current LCD display. OLED screens are renowned for offering deeper blacks, superior contrast, and more vivid colors, which may greatly enhance the visual experience while streaming PS5 games.

    Timing and Updates

    It’s worth noting that this rumor comes at a curious time, as the PlayStation Portal recently underwent one of its most substantial updates since its release. Sony has added native cloud streaming capabilities for PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers, enabling them to stream select PS5 games directly without needing to have a console turned on at home.

    The PlayStation Portal seems to fit into Sony’s broader strategy for a sustainable ecosystem rather than being a fleeting project. Last year, Sony also refreshed the device by adding a new color option as part of its Midnight Black Collection. For now, the OLED version remains in the realm of speculation. There are no additional leaks concerning its potential release date or pricing.

    Zuby_Tech via X

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  • PlayStation Portal Streams PS5 Games in Sony Honda Afeela EV

    PlayStation Portal Streams PS5 Games in Sony Honda Afeela EV

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony and Honda are partnering to integrate mobile gaming options in the Afeela 1 electric vehicle, featuring PS Remote Play.
    2. The vehicle will use a larger display and the car’s speaker system for gaming, reducing the need for earbuds.
    3. A stable 15 Mbps internet connection is crucial for gaming, with the EV expected to support 5G cellular capabilities.
    4. The integration may require a PS4 or PS5 console at home, in contrast to the standalone PlayStation Portal device.
    5. The Afeela 1 is set to launch in California in mid-2026, with a premium price of $102,900.

    After the latest update to the PlayStation Portal, the handheld gaming device has seen a rise in its popularity. Now, Sony and Honda are teaming up to provide mobile gaming options for passengers in their forthcoming Afeela 1 electric vehicle. However, a significant new feature that would allow access to more PS4 and PS5 games might not be included.

    Exciting Features Announced

    Sony Honda Mobility has revealed that their innovative vehicle will incorporate PS Remote Play. The PlayStation Portal enhances the car’s infotainment system with a display mounted on the seat. By utilizing the EV’s speaker system, users may find that they don’t need earbuds for clear sound.

    According to the press release, a stable 15 Mbps internet connection is essential to minimize buffering issues. Gamers can choose to use Wi-Fi when it’s available, but the Afeela 1 EV is expected to come with 5G cellular capabilities.

    Debating the Advantages

    It’s up for discussion whether the pre-installed PlayStation Portal will be more beneficial than carrying the handheld device. Sony has not provided exact details, but the display seen in the photo seems to be larger than the 8-inch LCD screen of the device itself. Additionally, players will be able to use a DualSense controller in a more comfortable position while sitting.

    The main downside of this integration is that it might require a PS4 or PS5 console at home to function. In contrast, the standalone device can now play bought PS5 games on its own. Moreover, cloud streaming through PlayStation Plus Premium allows access to a wider range of games. Sony Honda Mobility hasn’t indicated whether the Afeela 1 EV will be capable of these features post-launch.

    Challenges in the Market

    Previous efforts to integrate high-end gaming in electric vehicles have not been successful, with Tesla being a notable example due to its unsuccessful Steam app. Meanwhile, as console sales decline, Microsoft, in partnership with LG, aims to roll out Xbox Game Pass in various vehicles.

    For PlayStation enthusiasts excited about the Afeela 1, the car is expected to launch in California around the middle of 2026. The premium version will be priced at $102,900, with a more affordable trim expected to come out the following year.

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  • PlayStation Portal Update: Stream More PS5 Games and Boost Sales

    PlayStation Portal Update: Stream More PS5 Games and Boost Sales

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation Portal now allows streaming of over 2,800 games with a PS Plus Premium subscription, increasing its appeal.
    2. The device’s price of $199.99 is seen as competitive, contributing to its rise in sales rankings on platforms like Amazon.
    3. Sales of the PS Portal have surged in Japan, with units selling out in various stores after the update.
    4. The new features make the PS Portal more attractive compared to competitors like Switch 2 and ROG Xbox Ally, despite some limitations.
    5. Gamers are eagerly awaiting a potential PS6 handheld that could run PS5 games, while using the Portal requires access to Wi-Fi for cloud gaming.

    The PlayStation Portal has recently become a more effective handheld gaming device. With a PS Plus Premium subscription, users can now purchase and stream over 2,800 games without needing a PS5. The excitement over this enhancement has led to a spike in sales for the PS Portal, propelling it up the sales rankings.

    Competitive Pricing

    The increased functionality makes the device’s $199.99 MSRP even more appealing. A user named onQ123 on the NeoGaf forums pointed out that the Portal moved up from 43rd to 28th in Amazon’s video game rankings. Additionally, necessary accessories, like carrying cases for the PlayStation Portal, are also seeing a rise in demand.

    Sales Trends in Japan

    The boost in PS Portal sales isn’t just happening on Amazon in the U.S. Another forum user shared information from social media showing that, following the update, the gaming device is selling out in various Japanese stores. At Amazon Japan, the number of units sold in the last month surged from 700 to 800.

    New Features and Competitors

    Before the recent update, players had to use the Cloud Streaming Beta to access a broad range of PS5 games. Some gamers could only use remote play for titles that were installed on their home consoles. With the new features now standard, alternatives such as the Switch 2 or ROG Xbox Ally may appear less attractive.

    With gamers contending with increasing expenses, the price of the PlayStation Portal becomes even more appealing. However, there are still some drawbacks in comparison to devices from Nintendo and Asus. To utilize its cloud gaming features, the Sony device requires a PS Plus Premium subscription; otherwise, it cannot play games natively.

    Future Expectations

    As for an independent gaming system, PlayStation enthusiasts are looking forward to the anticipated PS6 handheld. Insiders believe that the Canis APU will be powerful enough to run PS5 games. A new power-saving mode introduced for the home console might enable it to run these games without any compromises. Until then, gamers will have to search for Wi-Fi hotspots while using the Portal away from home.

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    PlayStation Portal Update: Stream More PS5 Games and Boost Sales

     

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  • PlayStation Portal Launches Native Cloud Streaming Features

    PlayStation Portal Launches Native Cloud Streaming Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation Portal users can stream games directly without needing a base console, exclusive to PS Plus Premium members.
    2. A full list of streamable games is available online, with a search tool to check game availability in your library.
    3. The handheld device features a new main screen for cloud streaming activities and supports 3D Audio for streamed games.
    4. PlayStation Portal can function independently from a console, allowing the primary PS5 to serve as a second console.
    5. Limitations exist, as the PlayStation Portal cannot run games natively due to its mid-range Qualcomm SoC.

    PlayStation Portal users can now directly stream games on their handheld devices without needing a base console. This feature is currently exclusive to PS Plus Premium members, which makes sense since the PlayStation Now service was discontinued some time back.

    Game Availability

    Sony has released a full list of games that can be streamed on a specific webpage. There’s also a search tool that allows you to see if your preferred game is available for streaming. Keep in mind that the game must be in your library to qualify for streaming. The PlayStation Portal has also introduced a new main screen dedicated to all activities related to cloud streaming. Moreover, the handheld device includes support for 3D Audio for streamed games along with in-app purchases for all compatible titles.

    Standalone Functionality

    In summary, PlayStation Portal can now be used without a dedicated console, a feature that ideally should have been available from the start. This handheld can now act as an independent device, though its capabilities are somewhat limited. It also allows the primary PlayStation 5 to serve as a second console, providing an experience similar to couch co-op. However, running games natively on it is not feasible since the PlayStation Portal is powered by a mid-range Qualcomm SoC.

    Sony’s continues to innovate, but there are still limitations that users need to consider.

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  • PlayStation Portal Handheld Gets Praise as Strong Seller by Sony CEO

    PlayStation Portal Handheld Gets Praise as Strong Seller by Sony CEO

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation Portal is a specialized accessory for PS Remote Play, not a standalone console, but it’s reportedly selling well despite initial doubts.
    2. Sony’s gaming console sales, including the PS5, are declining, while the portable gaming market is growing, contributing to the Portal’s appeal.
    3. Approximately 980,000 PlayStation Portals are estimated to have been sold among PS5 owners by the end of 2024, showing higher-than-expected demand.
    4. The Portal could generate more revenue for Sony, especially as the PS6 release is not expected until 2027 or 2028.
    5. Future developments may include a PS6 handheld that runs PS5 games natively, enhancing Sony’s presence in the portable gaming market.

    When the PlayStation Portal first launched, it got some flak for being a specialized product focused on PS Remote Play. Instead of being a standalone console, it was introduced as an accessory that streamed games from the PS5. Despite the initial doubts, Sony’s President and CEO Hiroki Totoki recently hinted that it’s selling well. As the gaming company continues to enhance the Portal, it will stay a key focus for them.

    Difficult to Classify

    The PlayStation Portal remote player doesn’t actually run games from its own storage, making it hard to define. Unfortunately, Sony hasn’t shared exact revenue figures like they do for their regular consoles. They did announce that the PS5 has sold 77.8 million units, but it’s clear that sales growth has slowed. Data from Circana shows that console sales from Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft are on the decline. However, the portable gaming market is on the rise, which might be why the Portal is appealing to some.

    Rising Popularity

    Circana has also been keeping an eye on U.S. statistics that indicate the Portal’s increasing appeal. By the end of 2024, the company reported that four percent of PS5 owners have bought the device. With 24.54 million PS5s sold that same year, this suggests that around 980,000 Portals have likely been purchased by gamers. Although most PlayStation users don’t own the accessory, it has surpassed the expectations of analyst Mat Piscatella.

    The PlayStation Portal could bring in more revenue for Sony in the coming years. The PS6 might not hit the market until 2027 or 2028. Plus, the handheld is starting to make a name for itself in the cloud gaming space. Currently in beta, PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers can stream select games from the service’s library without needing a PS5. Still, the Portal remains a comfortable way to enjoy console gaming anywhere at home.

    Future Prospects

    Given current market trends, Sony might also focus on launching the speculated PS6 gaming handheld. This portable console is expected to run PS5 games natively, although with some performance trade-offs.

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  • Sony PS5 Rental Service Launches in the UK from £11/month

    Sony PS5 Rental Service Launches in the UK from £11/month

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has partnered with Raylo to offer PS5 consoles, PlayStation Portal, and PS VR2 headset rentals in the UK.
    2. Rental packages include the standard retail items, with options for single or multiple controllers depending on the PS5 model chosen.
    3. Renting is suitable for short-term use, but longer rental periods may approach the cost of buying a new console.
    4. Customers have a 14-day cancellation window, after which a fee applies, and there are policies for wear-and-tear on the rented items.
    5. The service is available online for UK residents, and customers can combine it with third-party game rentals like Boomerang Rentals.

    Sony has teamed up with Raylo, a tech leasing company, to provide PS5 consoles, the PlayStation Portal, and the PS VR2 headset for rent in the UK.

    What’s Included?

    When you rent, you’ll receive the typical retail package. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition can come with either one or two DualSense controllers. However, if you opt for the PS5 Pro or the Disc Edition, you will need to rent extra controllers for multiplayer gaming.

    Pricing Details

    Here’s a breakdown of the costs for the three PS5 models:

    – PS5 Digital Edition (single controller)
    – PS5 Console (disc version)
    – PS5 Pro

    This rental service is quite useful if you plan to use a PlayStation only for a limited time and don’t expect to play it much later. It’s also a good option if you’re uncertain about making a purchase.

    Considerations for Renting

    However, beyond these situations, there’s a catch: while the rates decrease for longer rental periods, the total expense can quickly approach the price of buying a brand-new console. For instance, renting the PS5 Digital Edition with one controller (currently $459 on Amazon in the US and £386.45 in the UK) on a 36-month lease actually costs more by the 32nd month.

    Although this isn’t true for all models, the other options become so close in price that it’s smarter to buy, especially since you could potentially sell it later and recoup some of your investment.

    Subscription Terms

    You have a 14-day window to cancel your subscription, but after that, a cancellation fee applies. Raylo also offers a fair wear-and-tear policy. Minor scratches, dents, and discoloration are acceptable, but more serious issues like cracks will result in repair fees.

    This rental option is accessible to residents in the UK through the PlayStation and Raylo websites. Interested customers might also want to pair this service with a third-party game rental like Boomerang Rentals in the UK, which provides physical game rentals via mail.

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  • Sony Developing Handheld Console for Native PS5 Game Play

    Sony Developing Handheld Console for Native PS5 Game Play

    A previous speculation suggested that Sony was closely monitoring the handheld console scene after the Steam Deck achieved great success. Although Sony did release the PlayStation Portal, it’s not really a direct rival to the many Windows-based consoles available today. Now, a report from Bloomberg reinforces the idea of Sony possibly re-entering the handheld gaming market.

    Sony’s Future Plans

    Sony’s concept “builds on” the PS Portal and aims to allow players to enjoy PlayStation 5 games while traveling. Of course, this project is still in the initial phases of development, so it likely won’t be available for some time. Creating a handheld device that can deliver PS5-level graphics will require significant advancements in technology that simply aren’t ready yet.

    Technical Challenges Ahead

    To begin with, high-bandwidth memory will be necessary to supply the GPU with data efficiently. This might be somewhat addressed with LPDDR6 modules. Then there’s the challenge of finding a CPU and GPU combination that can produce PS5-quality graphics without excessive power consumption. A Zen 4/Zen 5 along with a UDNA chip could potentially make this happen, but that won’t be anytime soon.

    Additionally, for Sony and AMD to succeed, they will need access to TSMC’s advanced manufacturing processes. Traditionally, AMD has lagged by one node, so if that trend continues, they might not have access to TSMC N2 until 2026, which could set the stage for a 2027 launch. All these elements, along with AI image upscaling techniques like PSSR, should make the concept feasible, at least in theory.

    Developer Support Challenges

    However, there’s also the hurdle of developer backing. Game studios will have to release toned-down versions of their titles to function on the PlayStation handheld, complicating the entire process. Ideally, Sony would benefit from positioning this device as a companion to the PlayStation 6. This separation actually makes sense, as it provides two distinct ways for users to engage with the same games.

    An earlier statement from Phil Spencer of Xbox indicated that Microsoft is also developing a handheld console that is “a few years away.” There’s a strong possibility that both devices could launch within weeks of each other, escalating the competition in the console market. Plus, we can’t forget about the Steam Deck 2, which has been said to not be launching soon, but Valve could disrupt Sony and Microsoft’s plans with its next-generation handheld.

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