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

Sony is rolling out an exciting new update for PlayStation Portal users participating in its Cloud Streaming Beta. This update, set to enhance user experience and general functionality, will be implemented later today, further enriching the remote play system's cloud capabilities.

One of the key features of this update is the ability to sort games within the Cloud Streaming Beta catalog. Players can now organize their game library by Name, Release Date, or by which titles were most recently added to PlayStation Plus, making it easier to navigate and find new games to enjoy.

Another significant addition is the capability to capture gameplay during a Cloud Streaming session. Users can access the familiar create menu to take screenshots or record video clips, with Sony supporting video clips up to 1920x1080 resolution and lasting up to three minutes. This feature allows players to share their best moments and achievements directly from their cloud streaming sessions.

The update also introduces a pause feature for gameplay. When you open the PS Portal quick menu, enter rest mode using the power button, or encounter a system error message, the game will pause. However, if the Portal remains in rest mode for more than 15 seconds, the cloud streaming session will disconnect. It's worth noting that this pause feature is not supported in online multiplayer games.

Additional enhancements include a queue system for when the streaming server reaches capacity, notifications for inactivity, and new user feedback tools. Sony has committed to continuously refining and expanding the feature set based on user feedback.

Currently, the Cloud Streaming Beta is exclusively available to PlayStation Plus Premium members, allowing them to stream select PS5 games from the PS Plus Catalog directly to the PS Portal. Last year's update transformed the Portal into a more standalone cloud streaming device, and it appears Sony is dedicated to further developing this functionality over time.

As cloud streaming becomes increasingly integral to the modern gaming landscape, it will be fascinating to observe how Sony's service evolves in tandem with the PlayStation Portal. At the very least, the ability to capture numerous screenshots during streaming sessions adds a delightful layer of interactivity and personalization to the gaming experience.