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

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

One of the standout features of this update is the ability to sort games within the Cloud Streaming Beta catalog. Players can now organize their games by Name, Release Date, or based on when titles were most recently added to PlayStation Plus, making it easier to find and play their favorite games.

Another significant addition is the capability to capture gameplay during Cloud Streaming sessions. 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.

Gameplay will now pause automatically when you open the PS Portal quick menu, enter rest mode using the power button, or if a system error message appears. However, the pause feature during rest mode is limited to 15 seconds; if the Portal remains in rest mode beyond this, the cloud streaming session will disconnect. It's worth noting that this pause functionality is not supported in online multiplayer scenarios.

Additional updates include a queue system for when the streaming server reaches capacity, notifications for inactivity, and tools for user feedback. Sony has expressed its commitment to continuously enhancing the service based on user input.

Currently, the Cloud Streaming Beta is exclusive to PlayStation Plus Premium members, offering them the ability to stream select PS5 games from the PS Plus Catalog directly on the PS Portal. Last year's update transformed the Portal into a more independent cloud streaming device, and it appears Sony is dedicated to further refining this feature.

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