Sony launches PlayStation Portal update with 1080p High Quality mode

The latest firmware update for the PlayStation Portal has arrived, bringing with it a suite of new features. The biggest addition here is a new 1080p ‘High Quality' mode, enabling better visuals when streaming games to the handheld. 

This new mode allows users to opt for a significantly higher bitrate for both Remote Play and Cloud Streaming sessions. By navigating to the Quick Menu's “Max Resolution” setting, players can toggle from the default Standard mode to High Quality. While the resolution remains at 1080p, the higher bitrate is intended to reduce macroblocking and “mushy” textures often found in fast-moving scenes, delivering a visual experience that more closely mirrors a native handheld console experience. Note, however, that applying the change requires a session restart.

The update also includes overhauled product detail pages for game bundles, adding a new UI element that lets users select specific titles within a bundle directly from the Portal. Furthermore, the device now supports active on-screen Game Invite notifications during streaming sessions. The social and achievement sides of the experience have been polished as well, with trophy notifications now displaying full names and artwork. Moreover, the search interface has been streamlined to bring up the on-screen keyboard instantly upon selection.

Rounding out the update is an improvement to the initial setup process. Sony has introduced a modernised onboarding flow that allows new users to create a PlayStation Network account and sign in by simply scanning a QR code with their mobile device.

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KitGuru says: Do you own a PlayStation Portal? Are you happy with your purchase? What other things would you like to see on your Portal handheld?

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