Sony’s PlayStation 5 (PS5) brings the power of Remote Play, enabling users to stream their favorite games to other devices, from smartphones to laptops. Whether you’re away from home or simply want to game on another screen while someone else uses the TV, PS5’s Remote Play feature allows you to do just that. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get started with this versatile feature.
Remote Play is a feature that allows you to stream your PS5 games to a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, PCs, and even PlayStation 4 consoles. As long as both your PS5 and the receiving device have a stable internet connection, you can play your PS5 games from anywhere in the world.
The best part? Remote Play doesn’t require you to be in the same room as your console. As long as the PS5 is in Rest Mode or turned on, you can tap into it remotely. However, to experience smooth, uninterrupted gameplay, it’s crucial to have a high-speed internet connection.
Before diving into Remote Play, a few prerequisites are needed. Make sure you have:
- A PlayStation 5 console.
- A compatible device like a smartphone, tablet, or PC with the latest version of the Remote Play app installed.
- A high-speed internet connection, preferably with at least 5 Mbps for a smooth experience, though faster speeds (15 Mbps or higher) are recommended.
- A DualSense controller, or in the case of a PS4, a DualShock 4 controller, to connect to your streaming device for proper gameplay.
To start using Remote Play, you need to ensure that Remote Play is enabled on your PS5. Here’s how:
- On your PS5, go to Settings.
- Navigate to System > Remote Play.
- Toggle on the Enable Remote Play option.
It’s essential to leave your console in Rest Mode rather than completely powering it off, as Remote Play won’t work if your console is turned off. To allow the PS5 to wake up in Rest Mode for Remote Play, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode.
- Enable the options for Stay Connected to the Internet and Enable Turning On PS5 from Network.
To stream your games on another device, you need the PS Remote Play app installed. The app is available for various platforms, including:
- iOS and Android devices via their respective app stores.
- Windows PCs and Macs from Sony’s official website.
Once downloaded, install and open the app.
After launching the Remote Play app on your device, you’ll need to connect it to your PS5. Here’s the process:
- Open the app and sign in with the same PlayStation Network (PSN) account you use on your PS5.
- Select PS5 from the device options (PS4 will also appear if applicable).
- The app will search for your console. Once found, tap it, and your PS5 screen should stream to your device.
If your PS5 isn’t automatically discovered, you can enter a code manually. On your PS5, navigate to Settings > System > Remote Play > Link Device. Enter the code displayed on your console into the Remote Play app.
Though it’s possible to use on-screen controls on mobile devices, the best experience comes from using a controller. For iOS or Android devices, connect your DualSense or DualShock 4 controller via Bluetooth.
- For iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > Bluetooth. Press and hold the PS button and the Create/Share button on your controller until it flashes. Once the controller appears in the Bluetooth settings, tap to pair.
- For Android: Similarly, go to Settings > Bluetooth and follow the same process.
For PCs and Macs, connect the controller via Bluetooth or a USB cable.
With everything set up, you’re ready to game remotely. The experience depends largely on your internet connection. While Remote Play can work over mobile data, a fast Wi-Fi connection is recommended for the best results.
Like all streaming technologies, Remote Play can encounter hiccups. Here are a few common issues and solutions:
- Lagging or delayed gameplay: Ensure both the PS5 and your device are connected to high-speed internet. Reducing the resolution in the Remote Play app can help smooth performance.
- Connection lost: If the app loses connection to the PS5, it’s usually due to poor network conditions. Try moving closer to the Wi-Fi router or using an Ethernet cable to connect your PS5 directly to the internet.
- Audio issues: If you’re experiencing audio problems, check your device's volume settings and ensure Bluetooth audio devices (such as wireless headsets) are properly connected.
Sony’s Remote Play feature opens a world of gaming possibilities beyond your living room. Whether you’re at a friend’s house, commuting, or in a different room, Remote Play enables you to access and enjoy your PS5 games seamlessly. While it may not replace the full immersive experience of gaming on a big screen with surround sound, Remote Play provides an excellent alternative when convenience and flexibility are key.
If you haven’t tried it yet, give Remote Play a spin. Your next adventure is only a tap away—no matter where you are.