With all eyes on PlayStation 4’s North American launch on November 15th, we wanted to provide definitive answers to your questions, both big and small. This list of Frequently Asked Questions is only a start, as certain details are still being finalized in preparation for launch. We will continue to update this FAQ leading up to launch and post-launch, integrating new answers to your questions and additional details as they are confirmed.
Read on to get answers to your questions regarding PS4, covering everything from the system specs and benefits to accessories, PlayStation Plus features, the launch game lineup and much more. Head over to the EU PlayStation.Blog for information specific to that region. Please leave your burning questions in the comments and we’ll address them in a future update!
The PS4 system will retail for USD $399.99 (MSRP) in the United States and CAD $399.99 (MSRP) in Canada when it debuts on November 15th, 2013 in North America. PlayStation Camera and additional DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllers will retail for $59.99 (MSRP) each.
North America: November 15th, 2013 (Canada and the United States) Europe: November 29th, 2013. (Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Russia , Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom) Latin America: November 29th, 2013 (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, Peru) Japan: February 22nd, 2014 Asia regions: The middle of December 2013 Other regions: TBA
You’ll get a PS4 system with a 500GB hard drive, a DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller, a micro-USB cable for charging the DUALSHOCK 4 controller, a Mono-headset for voice chat, a power cable (1.5m), and an HDMI cable (2.0m).
HDMI OUT, DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL AUDIO), Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, and an auxiliary connector reserved for PlayStation Camera. PS4 also features integrated 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi for wireless internet connectivity and Bluetooth 2.1 for DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller connectivity.
PS4 is designed with an internal power supply, so it does not have an external “power brick.”
PS4 owners will be able to replace PS4’s standard hard drive. PS4’s hard drive is used to store downloaded game and video content, game save files, gameplay movies and images, and more.
PS4 is equipped with a 5400 RPM SATA II hard drive. Users can choose to install a new hard drive so long as it complies with these standards, is no thicker than 9.5mm, and is larger than 160GB.
No, this feature is not supported on PS4.
PS4 measures approximately 275 mm (width) × 53 mm (height) × 305 mm (length), excluding the largest projection. Its weight is approximately 2.8 kg (6.1 pounds).
The model color at launch is “Jet Black.”
Yes, PS4 can be used in the horizontal or vertical position. In North America, vertical stands for PS4 will be released by partners as officially licensed program products during PS4’s launch window.
PS4 is capable of 10x the processing power of the PS3 system. The system features an optimized design featuring a unified 8GB of high-speed GDDR5 RAM, an eight core X86 CPU, and a powerful graphics processor. Generally speaking, PS4 will enable game developers to build larger, more detailed worlds than they could with the PS3 system. More realistic lighting models, more complex physics and particle effects, more varied and realistic character animations, sharper environment and object textures, higher screen resolutions (up to 1080p), higher frame rates (up to 60 frames per second), larger multiplayer matches and more will be possible thanks to PS4’s next-generation hardware.
PS4’s graphics processing unit (GPU) contains a unified array of 18 Compute Units, which collectively generate 1.84 teraflops of processing power that can freely be applied to graphics, simulation tasks, or a mixture of the two. PS4 is also equipped with 8 GB of unified system memory, easing game creation and increasing the richness of content achievable. High-speed GDDR5 is used for this memory, giving the system a total of 176 GB/second of bandwidth and providing a further boost to graphics performance.
The company started a conceptual discussion of PS4 five years ago, in 2008.
PS4 was a global effort led by SCEI’s Engineering group, with feedback from WorldWide Studios development teams, Sony Computer Entertainment’s corporate design center and more. Veteran game developer Mark Cerny serves as PS4 Architect.
PS4 will support 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p video standards via HDMI output.
Support for high-resolution 4K output for still images and movie content is in consideration, but there are no further details to share at this time. PS4 does not currently support 4K output for games.
The resolution of PS4’s HDMI output changes automatically depending on the TV or monitor connected. Of course, PS4 has been designed to deliver games with rich, high-fidelity graphics that are best enjoyed on HD TVs.
No. PS4’s video and audio are transmitted using HDMI, a common digital connector found on most HD TVs. Additionally, PS4 can output 5.1 or 7.1 audio via DIGITAL OUT (OPTICAL).
This process will not be necessary for PS4.
Technically, PS4 supports 3D gameplay at launch in North America, though no launch titles are currently 3D compatible.
Physical PS4 games come on Blu-ray Disc, the best form of media capable of handling the large amounts of data that PS4 requires.
PS4’s Blu-ray Disc reader operates at a higher speed than the model featured in the PS3 system, and includes a range of Blu-ray Disc sizes.
Yes, all PS4 Blu-ray Disc games must be cached to the hard drive to ensure a smooth gaming experience. However, certain titles may not require you to wait for the game data to be fully cached before starting gameplay. In order to start playing disc-based games, users will need to insert the game disc into PS4 just like on the PS3 system.
No, in this example you would have to delete the disc install data and fully install the digital version of the game.
Yes, you will need to download and install PS4’s day-one system software update 1.50, and then activate your Blu-ray Disc video capability with a one-time activation through the internet in order to play Blu-ray Disc films and DVD video content.
PS4 owners in North America can contact SCEA Consumer Services at (800) 345-7669 to request a Blu-ray activation disc that will be distributed via mail.
Yes, PS4 supports DVD movie playback; you will need to download and install PS4’s day-one system software update 1.50, and then activate your Blu-ray Disc video capability with a one-time activation through the internet in order to play Blu-ray Disc films and DVD video content.
No, PS4 does not support audio CDs.
PS4’s cooling system is optimized for living room use and is generally much quieter than PS3′s. PS4 features a stepless speed fan system that will smoothly increase the speed of the fans as needed. As with all game consoles, it’s important to keep PS4 in an environment with plenty of air circulation.
Yes, PS4’s stand-by mode deactivates its primary functions to reduce energy usage, though it is still able to charge DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllers and download system updates in this power-saving mode. As an added benefit for PlayStation Plus members, PS4 can automatically download game patches when in standby mode as well.
Upon the North American launch, PS4 will require a system software update (version 1.50) to add several new features. After you connect to the internet, PS4 will automatically start downloading v1.50 in the background. During this background download process, you’ll be able to play Blu-ray Disc games offline.
Yes, you will be able to download the firmware to your PC and transfer it to PS4 using a USB memory stick. However, to use the USB method the first time you take PS4 out of the box and before installing system software update 1.50, you’ll need to enable safe mode. When PS4 is powered off, press and hold the Power Button for seven seconds to enter safe mode. Note: Users should only update using official files downloaded from PlayStation.com.
The majority of new features that have been announced will be available when PS4 launches. These features include background downloads, cross-game voice chat, transitioning to a network based on real-world friends, and live streaming gameplay footage via Ustream and Twitch. Additional PS4 features will be rolled out in phases – please read full details on what’s available following system software update 1.5, and follow PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation.com for further news.
Below is an overview of certain features that have been announced that will not be available when PS4 launches in North America.
PS4 supports up to 2,000 online friends, an expansion of the 100 friends limit for the PS3 system. On PS4 you can quickly expand your friend list by connecting with people you’ve played with recently as it does on the PS3 system.
The PS3 system will continue to support up to 100 friends at one time. If you build a friend list bigger than 100 on PS4, network servers will automatically filter your friend’s list when you play on a PS3 system. Additionally, you will be able to set and lock a pre-determined friends list to be used while you play on the PS3 system if you wish. Support for the ability to display all of your friends in most applications and games is planned, however, some titles will be limited to the current 100 Friends limit.
No. But PS4 does give you the option of allowing your friends to see your real name in addition to your Online ID. You can also choose to import your Facebook photo to be used as your PSN profile picture if you wish.
Yes. They work exactly the way they do on PS3.
Unfortunately, no. In this case, we would advise creating a new master account. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Yes. The PS4 system’s parental controls can set the control level for playing a game or application that has parental control restrictions, as well as use of the internet browser.
Also, for each sub account user, there are the controls over the ability to use chat and messaging features, the ability to post and view user-generated media, and the ability to control a monthly spending limit for PlayStation Store purchases. Finally, sub account users cannot link their account with Social Network Services or use their real name or profile picture.
More information about PS4 parental controls will be made available at launch.
PS4’s GUI is called PlayStation Dynamic Menu. We developed the new GUI based on key development ideas for PS4: Simple, Immediate, Social, Integrated, and Personalized.
No, PS4 will not support Dynamic Themes as they currently exist on the PS3 system.
Compared to PS3, you’ll have much more control over displayed notifications, including messages, friend requests, Trophies, download status and more.
The PS4 system does not support client functionality* for media servers.
*We appreciate your feedback and are exploring possibilities.
The following PS4 titles are currently scheduled for release on or by November 15th, 2013. This list is subject to change, and we’ll continue to update it leading to launch day.
Angry Birds Star Wars Activision Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag Ubisoft Call of Duty Ghosts Activison DC Universe Online* Sony Online Entertainment FIFA 14 EA Sports Battlefield 4 Electronic Arts Just Dance 2014 Ubisoft Injustice: Gods Among Us Ultimate Edition Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Lego Marvel Super Heroes Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment Madden NFL 25 EA Sports NBA 2K14 2K Sports Need For Speed Rivals* Electronic Arts Skylanders SWAP Force* Activision
Blacklight Retribution* Zombie Studios Contrast Compulsion Games Pinball Arcade FarSight Studios (updated release info coming soon) Super Motherload* XGen Studios Tiny Brains Spearhead Games (updated release info coming soon) Trine 2: The Complete Story* Frozenbyte Warframe* Digital Extremes
*Newly confirmed title
Keep checking back to this official FAQ, and we’ll continue to add launch titles as they are confirmed.
Pricing will vary from publisher to publisher and game to game. Games such as Killzone: Shadow Fall will retail for $59.99 (MSRP) on Blu-ray Disc and digital PlayStation Store download. Other digital titles will sell for much less, such as Resogun. PS4 will also support free-to-play titles, which feature free gameplay as well as additional paid content.
You can purchase Blu-ray games at retailers, or purchase and download the game from PlayStation Store to PS4’s internal hard drive. You can also purchase digital games through the Sony Entertainment Network online store via PC and compatible mobile devices through PlayStation App — if your PS4 is in standby mode, the game will automatically download.
Ultimately, the decision lies with publishers on whether to make digital versions of games available on the same release date. However, we anticipate that most PS4 games will be available for purchase digitally via PlayStation Store on the same day as their retail Blu-ray counterparts.
Yes, PS3 users can currently pre-order digital versions of a selection of PS4 launch titles including Knack and Warframe, both of which offer bonus content. Read here for more details.
No, PS4 does not feature backward compatibility for PS3, PS2, or PSone games.
In some cases, yes. For example, a selection of popular digital titles including Flower, flOw, Escape Plan and Sound Shapes will be available to purchase on PS4 after launch. Gamers who purchased these titles for the PS3 or PS Vita systems (the PS Vita system only, in the case of Escape Plan) will be able to download the PS4 versions of these titles, some of which feature enhanced graphics or improved features, to their PS4 systems for no additional charge.
Yes, for a limited time and with a $9.99 upgrade fee, you can digitally “upgrade” your purchase of three currently supported games: Call of Duty: Ghosts, Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag, and Battlefield 4 to its full PS4 version. Click here for further details.
The functionality is technically possible and some developers may choose to support it for their titles.
This feature will not be available at launch.
Yes, similar to the PS3 system today, PS4 will not restrict players from playing disc-based used games. When a gamer buys a PS4 disc, they have right to use that copy of the game, so they can trade-in the game at retail, sell it to another person, lend it to a friend, or keep it forever. Furthermore, users will not have to go through activation steps or be charged usage fees when playing used disc-based games on their PS4 system.
First-party titles on PS4 (titles developed by Sony Computer Entertainment) will not use an Online Pass program. When it comes to third-party titles, PlayStation won’t dictate the strategy of publishers concerning Online Pass programs. However, most third parties have phased out the use of Online Pass systems, so they’re unlikely to appear on PS4.
Yes, they can lend and borrow disc-based games without restriction.
Yes, they can trade and sell disc-based games freely.
No, PS4 does not require a persistent internet connection to play games, so users can play single-player titles offline at any time. For titles with online multiplayer functionality, an internet connection and a PlayStation Plus membership will be required to play online.
Besides system software update 1.50 and a one-time activation for playing Blu-ray Disc and DVD movies, PS4 does not require an online connection for authentication purposes or to play disc-based games. However, PS4 features many advanced online benefits such as live PS4 gameplay streaming, entertainment services and more.
No, authentication is not required for PS4 disc-based games under any scenario.
In general, neither digital nor disc-based games will be region locked, but PlayStation recommends that all users purchase games at the region of their residence to guarantee the best overall experience and customer service. In certain instances, a software publisher may choose to region lock a game title for specific reasons, but Sony Computer Entertainment expects these instances to be uncommon.
Yes, system software updates will be automatically downloaded for all users.
Yes, all PS4 users will be able to automatically download and install game patches to their PS4. In addition, PlayStation Plus members will enjoy the ability to have those automatic downloads happen while the system is in standby mode.
No.
Yes, you can continue playing on PS4 while the game’s patch is being auto detected and downloaded. But depending on the game, you not be able to access online features until all the update data is installed. To install any game patch, users must close the game.
No, PlayStation Plus members can take advantage of this feature even when PS4 is in standby mode.
Yes, you can log into your SEN account on any internet-connected PS4 system and access your PS4’s digital content, friends list, and trophies. Outside of your “Primary” console, you can only log on to one other console at a time.
Once a user logs out, their content is no longer available.
Yes, as on PS3, PS4 users can switch between multiple SEN accounts on one PS4 system.
Yes, a maximum of four users can be simultaneously logged into one PS4 system.
No.
Yes, the PS4 system comes with a web browser, which is based on webkit technology and is faster and more compatible than the browser that comes with PS3.
DUALSHOCK 4′s battery life is similar to that of DUALSHOCK 3.
It will take about two hours to fully charge DUALSHOCK 4 whether you connect it to a PS4 or use a charging station.
You can charge the DUALSHOCK 4 on a PS4 system whether the system is active or in standby mode using the bundled micro USB charge cable. Licensed charging stations will be available, and universal chargers that support micro USB and the Dedicated Charging Port (DCP) specification can be used to charge DUALSHOCK 4.
Yes, you can charge DUALSHOCK 4 controllers when PS4 is in stand-by mode. However, in Europe, PS4 users will need to navigate to Settings, then Power Save Settings, and enable the Supply Power from USB Ports option.
PS4 supports up to four DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllers at one time.
To pair your DUALSHOCK 4 controller, you’ll connect it to your PS4 system via one of the front USB ports just like on PS3.
No, the function of this port is to enable the use of PlayStation Camera.
The DUALSHOCK 4 controller’s capacitive touch pad supports drag and drop, flicking, and multi-touch input. The touch pad is also clickable. Developers will choose how these features are used, if at all. In the example of Killzone: Shadow Fall, the touchpad is used to assign different commands to the player’s OWL drone in the single-player campaign.
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For developers that choose to support it, the light bar is an immersive and versatile addition to the DUALSHOCK 4 controller. In games such as Killzone: Shadow Fall, the light bar can help communicate status information to the player, changing colors when health runs low. In other games, the light bar’s color can reflect the game’s narrative, and much more. Also, when used in connection with PlayStation Camera, the game can detect and track the position of the DUALSHOCK 4 controller. DUALSHOCK 4 controller’s light bar is limited only by the imagination of game developers.
No. The light bar also serves as an indication of whether the DUALSHOCK 4 controller is turned on. Across different games, the color and brightness of the light bar on the DUALSHOCK 4 controller can be adjusted by game developers, but it cannot be completely switched off.
Yes, PS4 comes with the Mono headset to enable out-of-the-box voice chat for online games and optional voice commands for PS4 system functions. PlayStation Camera, sold separately for $59.99 (MSRP), will also support voice chat and voice commands for PS4.
The PS Vita system’s headset is fully supported. Some other third-party headsets may support basic audio and chat functionality on PS4, but Sony Computer Entertainment cannot guarantee it.
Yes, you can select the Output to Headsets option to either ‘Chat Audio’ or “All Audio.”
PS3 and PS4 users will be able to communicate with each other use text messages, but not video or voice chat.
As with the PS Vita system, PS4 will support up to eight users for cross-game Party Chat. The Party Chat feature works across both PS4 and PS Vita platforms.
Yes, PS4 users will be able to record voice messages up to 15 seconds long and send them to friends for later listening.
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DUALSHOCK 4′s integrated speaker lets inventive game developers immerse players more fully in the game world. In the example of Killzone: Shadow Fall, audio diaries collected in the campaign mode will be broadcast though DUALSHOCK 4 integrated speaker. We anticipate that developers will devise other interesting ways to use this feature.
Yes, DUALSHOCK 4′s upgraded SIXAXIS motion sensor is noticeably more responsive compared to DUALSHOCK 3 in supported titles. For example, the PS4 edition of Flower features more responsive motion controls, enabling players to more easily guide flower petals. DUALSHOCK 4′s SIXAXIS motion sensor is even precise enough for text input. In this optional mode, PS4 users can “point” at different letters using the DUALSHOCK 4 controller to form words.
DUALSHOCK 4′s multiple vibration motors give PS4 games a greater degree of expression and immersion.
All wireless devices experience some form of latency, a tiny delay between, say, pushing a button and seeing an action performed onscreen. Thanks to new technology and hardware optimizations, the DUALSHOCK 4 controller’s wireless connectivity experiences less latency overall than the PS3′s DUALSHOCK 3 controller.
Yes, you can connect a DUALSHOCK 4 controller to your PC using USB, and it will support basic functions. In regards to DUALSHOCK 4 supporting full compatibility for playing PC games, there are no details to share at this time.
Yes DUALSHOCK 4 controllers in “Magma Red” and “Wave Blue” will be available in North America after PS4 launches. We’ll announce their launch date in the future, so stay tuned to @PlayStation on Twitter for the latest news.
In addition to the DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller and PlayStation Camera, North American accessories available at launch will include the PS4 vertical stand ($14.00 MSRP), which enable owners gamers to securely place the PS4 system in the vertical position, and the DUALSHOCK 4 charging cradle ($29.99 MSRP), which enables two controllers to be charged away from the PS4 system.
Generally speaking, no. However, at launch, users will be able to use these controllers if a specific game title allows it to be used within the game. This decision is upon the game developer and will vary from game to game.
Refer to the chart below:
| Peripherals | Connection | Compatibility | Note |
| PlayStation Move and its peripherals | Bluetooth | YES | |
| Controllers (other than PS Move) | Bluetooth | NO | |
| USB | NO | Not compatible, however publishers may decide to enable them on a title-by-title basis. | |
| Headsets | Bluetooth | NO | Headsets that are currently commercially available are incompatible. |
| USB | YES | Will be compatible following system software version 1.50. * After the update, most commercially available USB headsets will be compatible. | |
| Keyboards | Bluetooth | YES | Generally, PS4 will support Bluetooth keyboards. However, special function buttons that serve as PS3 wireless controller buttons, available on certain products such as the PS3 wireless keyboard, can’t be used. These buttons include: △, □, SELECT, START, L3, L2, L1, R1, R2, R3, ×, ○, and PS button. |
| USB | YES | Generally, PS4 will support USB keyboards. However, if the keyboard incorporates special function buttons that serve as PS3 wireless controller buttons, these buttons cannot be used. | |
| Charging stand for DS3 | － | NO | The connecting ports of the DS4 and DS3 controllers are different. (DS3: mini USB, DS4: micro USB) |
| Mouse | Bluetooth | NO | You cannot use a mouse to navigate PS4. However, certain games may have mouse support. |
| USB | NO |
| Peripherals | Connection | Compatible | Note |
| Controllers | Bluetooth / USB | YES | Only Sony Computer Entertainment products and officially licensed products will be compatible with PS4. |
| Headsets | Bluetooth only | YES | |
| Other Peripherals | Basically same as the above peripheral chart |
PS4 will support the Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset and Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset – Elite Edition following an upcoming PS4 system software update. Existing wireless headsets from third-party companies that use a Bluetooth connection will not be supported on PS4, though most USB headsets will be supported following PS4 system software update 1.50.
No, PS4 does not support the DUALSHOCK 3 controller.
No, PS4 does not support the Blu-ray remote control for the PS3.
Yes. Developers will be able to create PS4 titles that use the PS Move controller, with Octodad: Dadliest Catch and Sportsfriends being two upcoming examples. However, PS3 titles that use the PS Move controller will not be supported on PS4.
PlayStation Camera is a newly developed camera for PS4 that incorporates two highly sensitive cameras that can recognize the depth of space. In addition, users will be able to login to their PS4 with face recognition and are capable of using their own body movements or voices to enjoy games more intuitively. Furthermore, PlayStation Camera is capable of sensing the color of DUALSHOCK 4′s light bar to judge the positions of multiple players sitting in the same room. PlayStation Camera is also compatible with the PlayStation Move motion controller, reflecting players’ in-game movements more accurately than ever in PS4 titles that support it.
PlayStation Camera is sold separately for $59.99 (MSRP).
With stereoscopic cameras, PlayStation Camera can capture 3D space images effectively. This technology enables PlayStation Camera to cut out the image of the player from the background, or to grasp a players’ position in front and behind, broadening gameplay possibilities. Game developers will choose how and if these functions are utilized for games.
Yes, four integrated microphones help obtain accurate sound detection and source origination for voice chat and voice commands.
Yes. You can purchase a PlayStation Camera (sold separately; $59.99 MSRP) or use the Mono headset that comes with PS4. After enabling the voice control mode, you will be able to control key PS4 functions using commands such as starting up a game or taking a screenshot. At launch in North America, six languages will be supported (English (US and UK), Spanish (European), Italian, French (European), German, Japanese), with more to come following future system software updates.
PlayStation Camera features a small and lightweight design measuring just approximately 186mm (width) x 27mm (height) x 27mm (length), and weighing just 183 grams (approximately .4 pounds).
The Playroom is an interactive experience that comes pre-installed on all PS4 systems, and it features different activities using a combination of PlayStation Camera and DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller. PlayStation Camera also has other uses, such as enabling players to narrate their live gameplay experiences streaming to Twitch or UStream, or using voice commands to launch games or initiate features such as taking in-game screenshots.
Yes, the PlayStation Camera supports AR technology. An example is in The Playroom, which utilizes AR technology such as AR Bots and Play With Asobi, where users can engage with robot characters displayed on-screen. Also included is AR Hockey, an air hockey game where players can change the shape of the court by moving and rotating the DUALSHOCK 4 controller in different directions.
Users can enjoy limited tutorial content for the DUALSHOCK 4 controller without PlayStation Camera. PlayStation Camera is necessary to enjoy other content within The Playroom. As for the DUALSHOCK 4 tutorial, users will be able to display their image on the screen during their play through AR technology if they own PlayStation Camera.
Remote Play will enable users to stream their PS4 gameplay to their PS Vita system via WiFi, freeing up the television for other uses. SCEA expects that most PS4 titles will support Remote Play unless the title requires a special peripheral like PlayStation Camera.
Remote Play will work best when the PS Vita system is located within the same WiFi network where PS4 is connected. We also recommend that PS4 be connected to the local area network via an Ethernet cable, that a router suitable for gaming be used and that the PS Vita system be within close proximity of the WiFi access point so that the connection is free of interference.
We strongly recommend that Remote Play be used within the same WiFi network where PS4 is connected. Remote Play may or may not work over a wide area network. For Remote Play to function over a wide area network, a robust and stable WiFi connection and broadband Internet connection is required, and the local area network where PS4 is connected must be configured to permit the PS Vita system to access PS4.
Remote Play between PS4 and PS Vita systems leverages Gaikai’s proprietary game streaming technology. PS4 supports this technology on a system level in order to reduce the burden for developers. All activities performed during Remote Play will occur on the PS4 system, such as purchasing add-ons, earning Trophies, and saving game progress.
Yes. But PS Vita can remotely wake up PS4 when in standby mode, as long as this feature is activated in the Power Settings menu on PS4.
No.
As with PS3, supported titles will allow PS4 and PS Vita users to play together in the same game via online multiplayer (PlayStation Plus required for online multiplayer on PS4).
Players can voice chat or text chat between PS4 and PS Vita systems using the Party application, even during gameplay. Also, users can browse and compare each other’s Trophies. You can also send and receive text messages between PS Vita and PS4.
Yes, PlayStation Plus membership is needed for PS4 online multiplayer gaming. PS4 features a significantly enhanced online feature set that will deliver innovative new online gaming experiences.
Certain titles built on a free-to-play model will not require PlayStation Plus for multiplayer functionality in North America. This list currently includes Blacklight Retribution, DC Universe Online, and War Frame in North America.
Generally speaking, no. PlayStation Plus membership is required to play the majority of online titles on PS4, however a selection of free-to-play multiplayer titles will be available without a PS Plus membership.
Yes. If you don’t have a PS Plus membership, you can still access online multiplayer modes if you log into a PS4 which is set as “Primary” by a PS Plus member. This means that, for example, if one housemate is a PlayStation Plus member, everyone in the household will have access to online multiplayer. Additionally, on the same PS4 system, any games or content purchased by one user are available to other users who play on that console (unless that content has expired).
All users can play online multiplayer modes. Up to four users can log in simultaneously to a single PS4 system, and all will have access to multiplayer as long as PS4 is set as “Primary” by a PS Plus member.
PS4 supports up to 16 local accounts, in addition to temporary guest accounts.
PlayStation Plus, the premium game membership for PlayStation home and handheld consoles, delivers unlimited access to a regularly refreshed collection of full games, discounts, exclusive beta access, online storage for game saves, and much more.
The following benefits will be available only to PlayStation Plus members on PS4:
Yes. One PS Plus membership will continue to grant benefits for your PS3 and PS Vita system, even after you pick up a PS4.
We are continuing the spirit of Instant Game Collection on PS4 and offering our users free content and access to new gameplay experiences that foster stronger social connections and discovery. At the launch of PS4, PS Plus members will have access to Resogun and Contrast for no additional charge. PlayStation Plus will then rotate in a new digital PS4 title every month. For one price, PlayStation Plus members get all of the benefits of PS Plus across all supported platforms.
Refer to the comparison chart below:
| PS3 | PS Vita | PS4 | |
| Online multi-player | Free on PSN | Free on PSN | PS Plus members only (certain free-to-play titles may allow online multiplayer) |
| Automatic game patch download | PS Plus members only (Detection to download) | PS Plus members only (Detection to download) | Free on PSN |
| Online game saves | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only |
| Automatic trophy synch | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only | Free on PSN |
| Automatic system software downloads | All users who have updated to system software 4.50 | Will be available to all users after a future system software update | Free on PSN |
| PS3 | PS Vita | PS4 | |
| Instant Game Collection | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only |
| Exclusives | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only |
| Discounts | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only | PS Plus members only |
| Game trials | PS Plus members only | N/A | Will not be offered at PS4 launch |
Some of the features users can enjoy for free include:
You can restrict start-up of the web browser, but you cannot limit the amount of time your child is permitted to use PS4.
Yes, you can block other users on PS4.
PlayAsYouDownload is a new feature for the PS4 system that speeds access to games downloaded from PlayStation Store. Supported titles will be playable after users download a portion of the data, while the rest of the game is downloaded in the background during actual gameplay. All titles are compatible this function, but certain titles may not support it at launch in North America.
The portion of a game that must be downloaded before gameplay begins will vary title by title, as will the time that it takes to download that initial portion. Users will be able to see when they are able to start playing by an indicator on the download progress meter. Certain titles, such as Killzone: Shadow Fall, will enable you to pick which mode to start downloading first, such as single-player or multiplayer.
Yes, you can use content you’ve purchased on up to two PS4 systems simultaneously — simply sign into a friends’ PS4, and the content you’ve purchased will be available as long as you remain signed in.
By setting your home PS4 your “Primary” console, the content you’ve purchased on your account is available to other family members without needing to sign in on your account.
Yes, this is possible.
PS4 does not support playback of PS3 games. Trophies are connected to your SEN ID, and will transfer seamlessly to your PS4.
We recommend that people buy from the PlayStation Store in the region in which they signed up in order to ensure the best experience and customer support.
Sony Network Entertainment’s Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited will be available at launch in North America. We will announce other entertainment services that will be available on Day 1 before launch. Check PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation social channels for further news and updates.
The music destination on PlayStation 4. Music Unlimited is a cloud-based, ad-free music subscription service that enhances and simplifies music discovery from an extensive catalog of millions of songs. On PS4, users can create the soundtrack of their choice, to listen to while playing their favorite games. On the go, the service can be enjoyed on a variety of portable devices such as PS Vita, Android phones and tablets, and iOS devices such as iPhone.
The video service, accessible from PlayStation Store on PS4, offers a la carte streaming movies and TV shows. The Video Unlimited service delivers new movie releases weeks before DVD and Blu-ray; the hottest TV shows the day after they air. The service is also available on other devices such as PlayStation 3, PS Vita, BRAVIA TV, and Xperia Smartphones, all with the convenience of a single Sony Entertainment Network account.
Yes, the Music Unlimited streaming service will allow you to listen to music while you play PS4 games. A subscription to Music Unlimited is required. Get full details here.
No.
No*.
*We appreciate your feedback and are exploring possibilities.
This new application from Sony Computer Entertainment will enable iOS and many Android-based devices to become second screens. Once installed on these devices, users can purchase PS4 games while away from home and download it directly to their home PS4. Depending on the device’s operating system, version, or other conditions, some users may not be able to use the application.
The DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controller features a dedicated Share button that enables players to save, distribute and share recorded gameplay video, captured gameplay screenshots, and livestream gameplay footage in real time.
No. You will be able to share gameplay videos, screenshots, and perform game livestreams without a PlayStation Plus membership.
PS4 players can share game video on Facebook, game screenshots via Facebook and Twitter, and gameplay livestreams via Ustream and Twitch starting on November 15th in North America.
You can distribute recorded gameplay video to Facebook. For gameplay livestreams, you can post the livestream’s URL to Twitter and Facebook just when the livestream begins.
Yes, PS4 constantly records gameplay footage automatically in the background, up to a maximum of 15 minutes before you press the Share button.
You cannot choose whether or not to record your gameplay. But as long as you don’t press the Share button on the DUALSHOCK 4 controller, the recorded gameplay will not be exported and it will not occupy space on the hard drive.
No. Users may not be able to record certain areas within the game. Developers can select the area of restriction, and what will be restricted will depend on game titles. In these cases, recording will be temporarily suspended during the scene.
PS4 will automatically capture up to 15 minutes of your most recent gameplay footage, which you can then choose to share with your Facebook friends using the DUALSHOCK 4 controller’s new Share button. For livestreaming gameplay video, there will be no time restriction.
Sony Computer Entertainment imposes no time restrictions for livestreaming, but some services may have time restrictions.
Yes, you’ll be able to store captured gameplay videos on PS4’s internal hard drive as long as you have sufficient free storage.
Yes, users can trim the video in the Share button interface. Currently, users will be able to specify a starting and ending point of the video in order to trim it to their liking.
You can’t add voiceovers to a shared video clip, but you can speak in real time when streaming live video.
PS4 users will not be able to directly copy recorded gameplay video files from PS4 to other devices, though they will be able to use the DUALSHOCK 4 controller’s Share button to upload videos to Facebook for distribution. This function will be supported by a future system update.
At this time, livestreams will not be archived for further viewing on Ustream. Users can archive their livestreams on Twitch by presetting via PC. Please follow PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation.com for news regarding PS4’s video services following launch.
No. At launch, PS4 users will be able to use the Share button on the DUALSHOCK 4 controller to upload gameplay videos to their Facebook account, or to stream live gameplay to Ustream or Twitch. PS4 owners can follow PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation.com for further news on other services to come after launch.
PS4 will allow the use of external HDMI-based capture devices following an upcoming system software update — please follow PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation.com for news following the launch of PS4.
No. These are optional services and you are free to skip them at any time.
