Overview of the Latest PS Portal Update
- New system software update for the PlayStation Portal has been released by Sony in April 2025.
- The PS Portal Cloud Streaming beta now features enhanced game sorting capabilities and on-the-fly gameplay capture functionalities.
- Users will benefit from improved session management options, including the ability to pause games, receive inactivity notifications, and a new queuing system for heavily populated servers.
Sony has unveiled a significant system software update for the PlayStation Portal, enhancing the remote player’s capabilities with features long anticipated by its users since the introduction of the Cloud Streaming beta.
Upon its launch in late 2023, the PS Portal presented a unique dilemma for many gamers. It marked the return of a PlayStation handheld device, following the underwhelming PS Vita released in 2011. Despite early skepticism regarding its purpose primarily as a PS5 Remote Play accessory, the PS Portal surpassed Sony’s initial sales forecasts, proving to be a commercial triumph. However, the absence of cloud streaming support initially disappointed many users, prompting questions about the handheld’s potential.
In response to user demands, Sony launched the PS Portal Cloud Streaming beta in November 2024 for PS Plus Premium subscribers. This initial version resembled more of a technical prototype than a fully refined service due to its lack of key features. Fortunately, this recent update marks a significant step forward, enriching the Cloud Streaming beta experience.
The latest enhancement allows users to sort their cloud game catalog by name, release date, or how recently a game was added to PS Plus, making navigation of the expanding game library much simpler. Furthermore, players can now capture gameplay while streaming, allowing for the same screenshot and video clip functionalities that exist during standard Remote Play sessions.
Additionally, Sony has made substantial improvements to user session management. Players can now pause their cloud gaming sessions and set their PS Portal to rest mode; however, it should be noted that the session will disconnect if inactive for 15 seconds. Users will also receive a notification if their session remains idle for over 10 minutes, counting down to remind them before automatic termination. For instances of server congestion, there’s now an estimated wait time display, with the game launching automatically when it’s the user’s turn. Lastly, players can share their feedback on the PS Plus Premium service using a quick emoji rating system, contributing to iterative improvements.
This latest update is particularly gratifying for dedicated PS Portal users eager for a greater focus on cloud streaming capabilities. However, it is important to keep in mind that these features are still in beta, and Sony may roll out additional enhancements and game support in the foreseeable future.
Detailed Patch Notes for April 2025 Update
Enhanced Sorting Options
The Cloud Streaming (Beta) catalog now includes a sorting feature. Users will find a new sort icon in the top left corner, allowing them to organize games by:
- Recently added to PS Plus (default)
- Name
- Release date
Gameplay Capture Features
The Create button on the PS Portal is now functional during Cloud Streaming (Beta) sessions, enabling the following:
- Press once: Access the create menu
- Press and hold: Capture a screenshot
- Press twice: Start or stop recording a video clip
All images and videos captured during a streaming session will be uploaded to the cloud, accessible via the PlayStation App under [Library] > [Captures]. Captured content will remain available for 14 days post-creation.
Queue Management
Players can now display their position in the wait queue when the streaming server reaches capacity. Estimated wait times will be visible, and once players’ turns arrive, their game sessions will automatically commence.
Game Pause Functionality
During a Cloud Streaming (Beta) session, the following actions will result in gameplay automatically pausing:
- Accessing the PS Portal quick menu by pressing the PS button, swiping from the top right, or tapping the quick menu icon.
- Pressing the power button will put the PS Portal into rest mode, pausing the game; users can resume by pressing the power button again. Note: the session disconnects after 15 seconds in rest mode.
- A system error message appearing will also trigger a pause; however, pausing may not be supported in some online multiplayer scenarios.
Inactivity Notification
A system notification will alert users if their streaming session is at risk of closing due to over 10 minutes of inactivity.
User Feedback System
At the end of each streaming session, users can provide ratings to evaluate their streaming experience. This initiative aims to gather insights for continuous service enhancements.