Sony is gearing up to release a portable PlayStation device, known as the PlayStation Portal, later this year. The handheld gadget is designed to stream PS5 games over Wi-Fi and boasts an eight-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution at 60fps. Priced at $199.99, the PlayStation Portal connects remotely to a PS5 console over Wi-Fi, allowing players to switch seamlessly between their PS5 and the handheld device. It can run supported games already installed on the PS5 console and utilizes the DualSense controller for gameplay.
The PlayStation Portal features controllers on both sides that resemble the PS5 DualSense controllers, complete with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback to provide a similar gaming experience. While it includes a dedicated media section, it lacks the ability to run content locally, requiring an internet connection for remote play. Interestingly, the handheld won’t be compatible with Sony’s upcoming cloud streaming for PS5 games that require a PS Plus Premium membership.
Early testing by IGN’s tech editor found no noticeable latency issues with the PlayStation Portal’s streaming capabilities. However, the device lacks Bluetooth connectivity, using Sony’s proprietary PlayStation Link wireless technology instead. This new wireless standard promises low latency and lossless audio, with Sony also releasing compatible wireless headsets and earbuds.
Sony has not yet finalized the battery size for the PlayStation Portal, but sources suggest it may offer around seven to nine hours of gameplay—similar to the DualSense controller’s battery life. The device was previously known as Project Q and is expected to hit the market later this year at the $199.99 price point.
