PlayStation Portal 2: Features It Needs to Avoid Failure
Are you excited about the idea of a PlayStation Portal 2 or a PlayStation portal pro? I know a lot of you are as that is what has inspired this video, seeing all your amazing comments about what you would like to see in an update PlayStation portal! But let’s face it from what you are all saying there are some big features that Sony must include to make sure it doesn’t flop like PSVR2 has. In this video, we’re diving into the must-have features that could make or break the next-gen PlayStation Portal. So stick around to find out what Sony needs to get right to avoid a total failure!”
Now I have had the PlayStation portal since launch day, and although I love it and use it all the time, it is far from perfect, which is why I am hoping the next version of the portal can address these issues and become even better for all of us PlayStation Gamers.
Why the PlayStation Portal 2 Needs Wi-Fi 6
The primary function of the PlayStation Portal is for remote play from your PlayStation 5, which requires a solid internet connection. While your PS5 can be hardwired via Ethernet for better performance, the PlayStation Portal relies on a wireless connection. However, the current model lacks Wi-Fi 6, which seems like oversight considering its purpose.
Wi-Fi 6 or even WIFI 7 which is now available is the latest standard in wireless connectivity, offering faster speeds, increased capacity, and lower latency compared to Wi-Fi 5. This is crucial for a seamless gaming experience, especially when streaming high-resolution games. The absence of Wi-Fi 6 in the current PlayStation Portal is a notable shortcoming that the PlayStation Portal 2 must address.
Including Wi-Fi 6 in the PlayStation Portal 2 is essential to ensure a reliable and strong wireless connection. Without it, users are more likely to experience input lag and low-resolution streaming due to poor connectivity, which would severely impact the device’s performance and user satisfaction. If the PlayStation Portal 2 doesn’t incorporate Wi-Fi 6, it risks failing to meet the expectations of gamers who demand smooth and responsive gameplay. For the PlayStation Portal 2 to succeed, it must prioritize top-tier wireless technology to deliver the best possible remote play experience without the need for any hacks to get the device to work properly.
Why the PlayStation Portal 2 Should Support Cloud Game Streaming
Remote play and cloud streaming aren’t fundamentally different in terms of technology, yet the current PlayStation Portal only supports remote play. According to Hidaeki Nishino, Sony Interactive Entertainment’s newly appointed CO-CEO, the primary technical difference between remote play and cloud streaming is the server location. Speaking to Japanese outlet AV Watch, Nishino suggested that the PlayStation Portal could potentially support cloud gaming without significant technical limitations. However, he emphasized that Sony wants to ensure cloud streaming is implemented correctly rather than just ticking off a feature box.
Sony has enabled cloud streaming on the PS5 in select regions, and feedback has been positive. However, Nishino explained, “It’s easy to check off the features, but we would like to proceed carefully while considering whether this is a good idea and whether we can truly provide gameplay without any problems.” This cautious approach is intended to maintain a high-quality user experience.
Gamers and tech reviewers have praised the PlayStation Portal for its design and functionality but noted its limitations as a device dedicated solely to remote play for PS5 owners with a strong Wi-Fi connection.
With the PlayStation Portal 2, Sony has the opportunity to enhance the device’s versatility by enabling direct cloud game streaming from PS+. This would bypass the need to stream from the console to the Portal, which isn’t ideal sometimes and dependent on multiple factors. Allowing direct cloud streaming would eliminate the middleman and make the Portal 2 more user-friendly and functional, especially for on the go gaming.
Direct cloud streaming wouldn’t require additional hardware since the games aren’t being downloaded; they’re streamed. This means users could enjoy the PlayStation Portal 2 anywhere with a decent internet connection, accessing the growing library of PS+ titles effortlessly. With this feature, the Portal 2 could become a better standalone gaming device and a more appealing device, meeting the needs of gamers who want flexibility and high-quality streaming wherever they are.
Why the PlayStation Portal 2 Should Have an OLED Screen
An OLED screen is the gold standard for handheld displays, and the PlayStation Portal 2 must at least offer this option. Sony pioneered the use of OLED in handheld gaming with the PlayStation Vita which was just so far ahead of its time. I wish the vita was a bigger success as even today it feels like a top quality premium bit of hardware in your hands and hasn’t dated at all showcasing the incredible visual quality it can deliver through its beautiful screen. It feels like a missed opportunity not to continue this tradition with the PlayStation Portal 2.
An OLED screen provides superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors compared to traditional LCD screens. This enhancement would significantly improve the visual quality of everything displayed on the PlayStation Portal 2 without the need to increase resolution. The result would be a richer and more immersive gaming experience which is just what we want for all those stunning PlayStation 5 exclusives we will be playing on the portal!
Now Considering the potential competition, the importance of OLED becomes even clearer. While we don’t yet know if the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature an OLED screen, if it does, the PlayStation Portal 2 could appear outdated if it lacks this technology. In an era where visual quality is paramount, falling behind even Nintendo would be a strategic misstep for Sony.
Including an OLED screen in the PlayStation Portal 2 not only meets current industry standards but also aligns with Sony’s legacy of pushing the boundaries of display technology in handheld gaming. This move would ensure that the Portal 2 remains competitive and appealing to gamers who expect the best visual experience possible.
Why the PlayStation Portal 2 Should Support Media Apps Like Netflix
The absence of support for Netflix and other streaming media apps on the PlayStation Portal is not just a limitation — it’s a missed opportunity. Currently, users cannot even access these apps through their PS5 via remote play, which seems unnecessarily restrictive.
The core purpose of the PlayStation Portal is to serve as a secondary screen for your PS5, ideal for gaming when the main screen is in use or when you’re away from home. However, many users also utilize their PS5's for streaming shows and movies just as much as they play games. It only makes sense to extend this capability to the PlayStation Portal 2.
Enabling media apps like Netflix to run on the PlayStation Portal 2 would enhance its versatility and appeal. Users could seamlessly switch between gaming and streaming entertainment content without the need to switch devices. This convenience aligns perfectly with the multi-functional demands of today’s users who expect their devices to support various forms of entertainment.
By adding support for media apps, Sony can broaden the Portal 2’s appeal beyond gaming, making it a more integral part of users’ entertainment setups. Whether you’re gaming or catching up on your favorite series, the Portal 2 could become your go-to device for immersive and enjoyable entertainment experiences away from your TV!
Why the PlayStation Portal 2 Should Include Bluetooth Support
The absence of Bluetooth on the PlayStation Portal is a difficult one to justify. While Sony may have promoted its very expensive proprietary headphone solutions with the PlayStation Portal, it’s clear that users prefer the flexibility of using their own Bluetooth headsets. Many gamer’s already own high-quality Bluetooth headsets that they use seamlessly with their PS5, and they rightfully expect the same convenience from the next version of the playstation portal.
Bluetooth support would allow users to use their preferred headsets without being limited to Sony’s specific accessories or requiring wired connections. This not only enhances comfort during gameplay but also is much fairer for users who have made an investment in their own headsets already.
By integrating Bluetooth support into the PlayStation Portal 2, Sony can align its handheld device with the standards set by its flagship console, the PS5. This consistency in user experience across devices enhances convenience and usability, fostering a seamless transition between gaming on the big screen with your PS5 and on then on the go with your Portal.
Why the PlayStation portal 2 should include hall effect joysticks
What are Hall Effect joysticks?
Hall Effect joysticks use magnets and electrical conductors to detect inputs and movement and with there being no contact between the components, the possibility of wear and stick drift is reduced, while the overall longevity is increased. This would help reduce the instances of stick drift which have been reported in normal Dual Sense Controllers, and since the Portal is a more expensive device we want to avoid this at all costs!
Why the PlayStation Portal 2 Should Include a Carrying Case
One of the most glaring missed opportunities with the PlayStation Portal has been the lack of an official carrying case. Third-party companies have quickly filled this gap in the market, but Sony should provide an official storage solution for the PlayStation portal.
When you invest in a portable device like the PlayStation Portal, it’s essential to have a safe and protected way to store it, whether you’re at home or on the go. A carrying case not only shields the Portal from physical damage but also keeps it clean and safeguarded from household dust, sunlight or accidental bumps.
As the potential for a new portal to use WiFi 6 or an even newer WiFi standard increases, this will enable more seamless connectivity on various networks, which means the need for a reliable way to transport your Portal becomes even more urgent. Having an official carrying case from Sony would encourage users to confidently take their Portal with them, enhancing its ability to be a more portable gaming companion.
By offering an official carrying case or including one with the PlayStation Portal 2, which would be a nice touch, Sony would be helping us to protect our investment from accidental damage right away. It would also complement the device’s sleek design and functionality, which would help ensure users can enjoy their gaming experience wherever they go, worry-free!
Since there are still no official accessories like a case or even a charging dock for the portal, you are going to want to know about the best accessories you can actually buy right now which we discuss in my next video I have linked below for you to check out.
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Hi, I’m Murray; I write about all things Video Games & Gaming Content creation here on Medium. If you want to see my stories on your feed, I’d love you to follow me. To have my stories sent directly to you, subscribe to my newsletter. Thanks you & I look forward to chatting to my fellow Gamers in the comments!
