PS4 Play PS5 Games Remotely: How to Stream

What an interesting development! Several PlayStation 4 users have noticed the unexpected appearance of a new “PS5 Remote Play” application this morning. Although the application’s functionality is currently limited—considering the PS5 has not yet been released—it appears designed to enable streaming from a PlayStation 5 console in one location to a PlayStation 4 console in another, allowing for remote control.

It’s important to note that this isn’t equivalent to having a second PS5 console; Remote Play typically introduces some latency, making it less suitable for fast-paced games demanding precise timing. However, considering many previous-generation consoles eventually become secondary devices used for Blu-ray playback or streaming services, this feature offers a valuable way to prolong the usefulness of the PS4. IGN first reported on the app’s appearance, and it seems to be being distributed to users in stages.

Sony has released limited details regarding the system’s operation, leaving several questions unanswered regarding compatibility—will all PS5 games be supported, or only a selection? Will PS4 controllers be functional with PS5 games through Remote Play, despite Sony’s previous statement that they will only operate with backwards-compatible PS4 games on the PS5? A frequently asked questions section on the PlayStation blog confirms the application is intended for playing PS5 games on the PS4, but provides no further specifics.

Sony has also announced that Remote Play will now accommodate multiple simultaneous remote users, enabling local multiplayer gaming experiences with friends who are not physically present.