PlayStation Portal Enhances Cloud Streaming with Beta Updates, Adds Gameplay Capture

Sony is set to roll out a significant update for PlayStation Portal users enrolled in the Cloud Streaming Beta. This update introduces several enhancements to the remote play system's cloud capabilities, scheduled to go live later today.

One of the standout additions is the ability to sort games within the Cloud Streaming Beta catalog. Users can now organize titles by name, release date, or the most recent additions to PlayStation Plus. Additionally, capturing gameplay during a Cloud Streaming session is now possible. The standard Create Menu options remain intact, allowing users to bring up the menu, take screenshots, or record video clips. According to Sony’s PlayStation blog, video clips up to 1920x1080 resolution and up to three minutes long are supported.

Another notable change is the introduction of a pause feature. Gameplay will now halt when opening the PS Portal quick menu, entering rest mode via the power button, or if a system error message is displayed. However, the pause in rest mode is limited to 15 seconds. Beyond that, the cloud streaming session will disconnect. It's important to note that this pause functionality isn’t supported in online multiplayer sessions.

Additional improvements include a queue system for when the streaming server reaches capacity, notifications for inactivity, and enhanced user feedback tools. Sony has stated its commitment to continually refining the feature based on user input.

Currently, the Cloud Streaming Beta is available exclusively to PlayStation Plus Premium members, enabling them to stream select PS5 games from the PS Plus Catalog through the PS Portal. Last year’s update transformed the Portal into a standalone cloud streaming device, and it seems Sony intends to further evolve this feature moving forward.

As cloud streaming continues to solidify its presence in the contemporary gaming landscape, it will be intriguing to observe how Sony's offering develops alongside its PlayStation Portal device. At the very least, users can now enjoy the convenience of taking dozens of screenshots while streaming to their Portal.