PlayStation Portal Enhances Cloud Streaming Beta with Gameplay Capture

Sony is introducing a significant update for PlayStation Portal users enrolled in the Cloud Streaming Beta. This update introduces various improvements to the remote play system’s cloud capabilities, enhancing the overall user experience. One of the key additions is the ability to sort games within the Cloud Streaming Beta catalog. Users can now categorize titles by name, release date, or the latest additions to PlayStation Plus, making navigation more intuitive.

Another exciting feature is the capability to capture gameplay during a Cloud Streaming session. Players can access the standard create menu options, such as taking screenshots or recording video clips, directly from the cloud stream. According to Sony’s PlayStation blog, the update supports video clips up to 1920x1080 resolution and up to three minutes in length.

In terms of usability, gameplay will now pause when opening the PS Portal quick menu, activating the rest mode via the power button, or displaying a system error message. However, the rest mode pause is limited to 15 seconds; if the Portal remains inactive for longer, the cloud streaming session will disconnect. It’s worth noting that pause functionality isn’t supported during online multiplayer sessions.

Additional updates include a queue system for when the streaming server reaches capacity, notifications for inactivity, and enhanced user feedback tools. As part of its commitment to continuous improvement, Sony plans to roll out new features based on user feedback.

Currently, the Cloud Streaming Beta is available exclusively to PlayStation Plus Premium members, allowing them to stream select PS5 games from the PS Plus Catalog via the PS Portal. Following an update last year, the Portal has evolved into a standalone cloud streaming device. It seems Sony intends to refine this feature further as part of its ongoing development efforts.

As cloud streaming becomes increasingly prominent in the modern gaming landscape, it will be intriguing to observe how Sony’s offering evolves alongside its PlayStation Portal device. For now, users can enjoy enhanced functionalities, including the ability to capture countless screenshots while streaming to their Portal.