PlayStation TV‘s North American launch is set for next Tuesday, October 14, so we wanted to get the ball rolling by providing a comprehensive resource for all topics related to PS TV. Though certain details are still being finalized, this FAQ will cover a range of topics about this sleek and compact new addition to the PlayStation family. Topics covered include everything from the system specs and benefits to accessories, PlayStation Plus features, the launch game lineup, differences from PS Vita, and much more.
Please leave your questions in the comments. We will continue to update this FAQ leading up to launch, integrating new answers and additional details as they are confirmed.
How much does PS TV cost? When does it come out?
The PS TV system will retail for $99.99 (MSRP) for the standalone system in the United States (and CAD $99.99 [MSRP] in Canada) when it debuts on October 14, 2014 across North America. There will also be a limited edition bundle version of the PS TV system with The LEGO Movie Videogame for $139.99 (MSRP) in the United States and CAD $139.99 (MSRP) in Canada.
When does the PS TV digital store launch?
October 13, 2014.
When does PS TV come out in Europe?
November 14, 2014.
What comes in the standalone PS TV box at launch?
PlayStation TV system, HDMI cable, AC adaptor, and AC power cord.
Buy the PlayStation TV limited edition bundle
What does the PS TV limited edition bundle include?
PlayStation TV system, DualShock 3 wireless controller, 8GB memory card, The LEGO Movie Videogame Game Voucher, AC adaptor, AC power cord, HDMI cable, and USB cable.
What input/output ports and connectivity features does PS TV support?
HDMI OUT, Ethernet, and one USB 2.0 port. PS TV also features integrated 802.11 b/g/n (n=1×1) Wi-Fi for wireless internet connectivity and for DUALSHOCK 3 and DUALSHOCK 4 controller support as well as Bluetooth headset/headphone (A2DP, AVRCP, HSP) and keyboard (HID).
Is a memory card required for gameplay?
PS TV has 1GB internal memory, which can be used for game saves or small-sized downloadable content. However, you will need a separate memory card for those games that require game saves or have downloadable content with larger data. A memory card isn’t required for streaming services like PS Now or Remote Play.
What are PS TV’s physical dimensions?
PS TV measures approximately 13.6 mm (thickness) × 105 mm (height) × 65 mm (length). PS TV weighs approximately 110 grams (0.24 pounds).
Here’s a photo comparison:
What is the difference between PS TV and PS Vita?
The following table highlights the feature differences between the two systems.
| Applications | The following PS Vita applications are not available on PS TV: – near – map – welcome park – network operator – Remote Play (for PlayStation 3) The following applications are available on both PS TV and PS Vita, though with these differences: – Photos cannot be taken on PS TV’s [photo] app (PS TV does not have a camera). |
| Network Connection | PS TV supports both Wi-Fi and Ethernet. |
| Video/Sound Output | PS TV outputs video/sound to a TV via HDMI cable. |
| Controls |
PS TV is controlled by DualShock 3 or DualShock 4.
The touch pointer feature allows users to use right/left stick on a controller (DualShock 3 or DualShock 4) to perform touch operations like you would on a PS Vita system. In addition, users can also use a touch pad on a DS4 to perform touch operations. Users can use this feature in supported PS Vita titles or PS Mobile titles. [OPTIONS] and [SHARE] buttons on a DS4 will be assigned to [START] and [SELECT] button on a PS Vita system. Speaker and Stereo headset jack on a DS4 are not supported on PS TV. PS TV supports key input via Bluetooth keyboards (however, Sony Computer Entertainment does not guarantee compatibility with all Bluetooth keyboards). |
| Game Titles | PS TV supports different titles from PS Vita. |
What color variations will you offer at launch?
The model color at launch is black.
What screen resolutions will PS TV support?
PS TV will support 480p, 720p, and 1080i via HDMI output.
Will PS TV support 4K content for video or gaming?
No, the PS TV system does not support 4K output for games.
Does PS TV support analog video or audio output? Does PS TV support standard-definition TVs?
No. PS TV’s video and audio are transmitted using HDMI, a common digital connector found on most HD TVs. PS TV does not support standard-definition TVs.
Will PS TV require a system software update at launch in North America? How will system updates work post-launch?
Upon the North American launch, PS TV will require a system software update to add several new features. After you connect to the internet, you will need to sign into PSN, where you will receive a notification to update the system software. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
Which PS TV features will be available at launch in North America?
Popular features already available on PS Vita, like Remote Play, will be available when PS TV launches. Additional PS TV features will be rolled out in phases. Please read full details on what’s available following system software update 3.30, and follow PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation.com for further news.
What is “LiveArea”?
Every game features a space called “LiveArea” where you can access new game information from Sony Computer Entertainment and third-party developers and publishers via PSN. You’ll also be able to view an “Activity” log that includes your PSN Friends. This log is constantly updated with accomplishments from users who are playing the same game, which in turn can trigger active real-time communication and gameplay among users.
Does PS TV offer sub-accounts? How do they work?
Yes. Click here for information about sub-accounts.
Does PS TV offer parental control options to restrict content to younger users?
Yes. PS TV provides the flexibility to manage console use by time and day, gameplay by ESRB rating, and block in-store purchases.
Also, for each sub-account user, there are controls over the ability to use chat features, the ability to post and view user-generated media, and the ability to control a monthly spending limit for PlayStation Store purchases.
For additional information on PS TV’s Parental Controls, click here.
Can I block or unblock another user on PS TV?
You can add users on the PSN with whom you do not want to communicate to your block list. Messages from people on the block list will not be received. Also, people on the block list will not be able to see your activities and friends list. You can also remove someone from your block list.
Will PS TV support media servers or DLNA support in order to stream videos or movies from a home PC?
No, the PS TV system does not support client functionality for media servers.
What type of game content can PS TV play?
PS TV can play games from a range of PlayStation platforms, including compatible titles from:
- PS Vita
- PSP (PlayStation Portable)
- PS One Classics
- PlayStation Minis
PS TV also supports PlayStation Now, allowing PlayStation 3 games to be played via streaming over an Internet connection.
As with PS Vita, PS TV supports PS4 Remote Play, allowing PS4 users to continue playing a game enabled for remote play on a PS TV system in another room such as their bedroom.
What PS TV games will be available at launch in North America?
Click here to see a list of all compatible games.
How do I purchase PS TV games?
Customers can purchase supported PS Vita games at retailers, or purchase and download games from PlayStation Store to PS TV’s internal memory or a memory card. Customers can also purchase digital games through the Sony Entertainment Network online store via their PC.
Will any PlayStation Store content purchased on PS3 or PS Vita systems be transferable to a PS TV system?
Users who purchased PS Vita games that are compatible with the PS TV system will be able to download these titles, some of which feature enhanced graphics or improved features, to their PS TV system for no additional charge if they are using the same SEN account.
Can PS TV and PS Vita users play together online?
This functionality is technically possible and some developers may choose to support it for their titles.
Will Gold Wireless Headset and PULSE wireless stereo headset – Elite Edition work on PS TV at launch in North America? What about other wireless headsets?
PS TV will not support the Gold Wireless Headset, Silver Headset, and Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset – Elite Edition. PS TV generally supports Bluetooth headsets, speakers, and keyboards.
Can I use my PS3 remote control on PS TV?
Yes, PS TV supports BD remote control (CECH-ZRC1).
Does PS TV support the PlayStation Move motion controller?
No.
Does PS TV support external HDMI-based game capture devices?
PS TV supports HDCP (copy protection). HDCP cannot be turned off.
How can users charge DualShock 3 or DualShock 4 controllers? Does PS TV include a charge cable?
The DualShock 3 controller, which is included with the PS TV bundle, can be charged using a USB mini-B cable. Users can charge the DualShock 4 controller on PS TV using a USB micro charge cable (available for purchase separately). Dedicated charging stations for both DualShock 3 and DualShock 4 are also available.
How do the “Share” and “Option” buttons work on the DualShock 4 controller when used on PS TV?
The “Share” button on the DualShock 4 operates like the “Select” button on the DualShock 3; the “Option” button on the DualShock 4 functions like the “Start” button on the DualShock 3. Please note, PS4’s ‘Share’ functionality is not available on PS TV.
Is it possible to charge a DualShock 3 or DualShock 4 controller via my PS TV when I’m not playing?
Yes, you can charge DualShock 3 or DualShock 4 wireless controllers when PS TV is in standby mode.
How many DualShock 3 or DualShock 4 wireless controllers can I connect to my PS TV at one time?
PS TV supports up to four DualShock 3 and DualShock 4 wireless controllers for local multiplayer experiences (The number of controllers that are supported will depend on individual titles/applications).
Can PS TV and PS4 users voice chat together?
PS TV and PS4 users will be able to communicate with each other via text messages and voice chat using the Party app and a supported Bluetooth headset.
For cross-game Party Chat, how many players will PS TV support?
As with the PS Vita system, PS TV will support up to eight users for cross-game Party Chat. The Party Chat feature works across PS TV, PS4, and PS Vita platforms.
What is Remote Play?
Remote Play will enable users to stream their PS4 gameplay to their PS TV system via the network, freeing up the television for other uses. Sony Computer Entertainment expects that most PS4 titles will support Remote Play unless the title requires a special peripheral such as PlayStation Camera during gameplay. Furthermore, Blu-Ray Disc titles and DVDs cannot be played, and content from some video services cannot be played either.
When will Remote Play work best?
Remote Play will work best when the PS TV system is located within close proximity to a Wi-Fi AP (access point) where the PS4 system is connected. We also recommend that PS TV be connected to the local area network via an Ethernet cable, and that the PS TV system be within close proximity to the Wi-Fi access point so the connection is free of interference.
How will Cross Play function between PS4 and PS TV systems?
Supported titles will allow the PS4 system and PS TV users to play together in the same game via online multiplayer (PlayStation Plus required for online multiplayer on PS4).
Are there any other cross-functional capabilities between PS TV and PS4 users?
Players can voice chat or text chat between the PS4 and PS TV systems using the Party application, even during gameplay. Users can also browse and compare each other’s Trophies. Text messages can also be sent/received between PS TV and the PS Vita and PS4 systems.
When will PlayStation Now launch on PlayStation TV?
PlayStation Now’s Open Beta for PS TV is scheduled to launch on October 14, 2014 to consumers in North America. It is also scheduled be available on PS Vita at this time. Service not available in all areas. See us.playstation.com/playstationnow for details.
What games will be available on PlayStation Now for PS TV?
The Open Beta will launch with over 150 PS3 titles. See the games library page for the latest updates.
What do I need to play PS Now on PS TV?
Users will need a steady broadband internet connection ranging between 5-12 Mbps and a SEN Account and a DualShock 3 or DualShock 4 controller.
How do I troubleshoot my connection?
To maximize your connection we recommend:
- Hardwiring the PS TV via an Ethernet cable.
- Suspending other bandwidth intensive services (i.e., large downloads or streaming services).
- Running the connection test found in the Settings app on PS TV to ensure you meet the bandwidth requirements.
Does PlayStation Now offer multiplayer?
Yes, couch co-op and online multiplayer features are playable on PS Now as long as these features are supported by the game.
Can I save and resume my game on PS Now?
Yes. Your game saves are stored indefinitely in our cloud storage system, allowing you to pick up where you last saved.
Can two people use my account’s content on two different PS TV systems at once?
Yes, this is supported.
Can I buy PlayStation Store content from other regions?
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.
What entertainment services will be offered at the launch of PS TV?
Video content such as movies and TV episodes available on PlayStation Store will be available at launch in North America. We will announce other entertainment services that will be available on Day One prior to launch. Check PlayStation.Blog and PlayStation’s social channels for further news and updates.
What features will be available with PlayStation Plus on PS TV?
The following benefits will be available only to PlayStation Plus members on PS TV:
- Instant Game Collection – Access to a regular, curated selection of titles made exclusively available to PlayStation Plus members at no additional cost.
- Discounts – Members will have access to exclusive discounts on PlayStation Store.
- Online Game Save – Members may automatically (or manually) upload game save files to Online Game Save Storage for safekeeping. Up to 1GB of cloud storage will be allocated to your PS TV save files.
- Other benefits – Early access to exclusive game content, automatic game patch downloads and installation, and more.
Is PlayStation Plus necessary for multiplayer gameplay on PS TV?
No.
Does my Plus membership for PS4, PS3, or PS Vita systems still count for PS TV?
Yes. One PS Plus membership will continue to grant benefits for your PS4, PS3, and PS Vita system, even after you pick up a PS TV.
How does PlayStation Plus membership compare on PS4, PS3, PS TV, and PS Vita systems?
Please refer to the following comparison chart:
| PS3 | PS Vita and PS TV | PS4 | |
| Online multiplayer | 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 | PS Plus members only | 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 |
| Content Services | |||
| 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 PS TV launch |
What network services will be free on PS TV, without a PlayStation Plus membership?
Some of the features users can enjoy for free include:
- Playing PS4 games remotely using the PS TV system (Remote Play).
- Comparing Trophy data with other users.
- Sending and receiving text messages from other users.
- Party (cross game voice chat).
Will I be able to play MP3s on PS TV?
Yes. PS TV can play MP3 music that is stored on the memory card.
Will HDCP be disabled to allow recording gameplay/streaming on Twitch via a capture card?
Why is there no bundle with a dualshock 4 controller? For us with a PS4 we want a controller that we would normally use on our current console. I am glad to hear that it’s compatable with dualshock 4, that would have been a for sure no on buying. So thanks for that, but we want a bundle with a Dualshock 4. Please!!
Also does this suport itunes or Netflix or other apps like this?
I am excited about the playstation tv as well and i am gonna get it as well when it comes out next week
Any plans for a bundle that includes a PS4 dual-shock controller rather than a PS3 one?
When Is this selling in Mexico?
So will we get update on what New games for the Vita will be compatible. For Myself I want to play Tales of Hearts R but it isn’t listed as compatible yet.
Will remote play function within a different Wi-Fi connections?
As I remember, you are only granted 3 devices your PSN account can be activated on. I have one of each system (PS3, PS4, and Vita) so will users like me have to worry about deactivating one of those systems or will we be granted to activating the PS TV without any worry of a fourth device activated on the account?
A lot of you guys are asking questions that are in the FAQ
Like HDCP for example, yes it is enabled.
Not letting us use the PS3 wireless headphones is a mistake. But as others asked, can we use headphones plugged into a DS4?
Please reconsider the whitelist, make it a suggestion. We should be able to play games we paid for regardless of what features are missing. I’d rather play some of the game than none.
The party chat during remote play has not been addressed, so I will assume it is correct. I am preordering now with the faith that the information in the FAQ is correct.
Sounds awesome, I’ll be buying one. But Would like to see a few more things.
1. Support for apps like VUDU, iTunes, Disney Anywhere, HBO GO and others.
2. A bundle with a Dualshock 4 controller & Game.
3. Even though it’s over WiFi Needs a way to get 1080p (Mabye a straight contect from PS4 to PS TV via ethernet? If possable)
4. Another option besides that little box like it built into a sounds bar or a Blu Ray player or Stereo or TV or even better the PSVITA. You can play the VITA with PS4 games and use it as the PS TV via HDMI or Screen Mirroring.
5. 3.0 USB to power up IE less cords
1. Can you go out of town and hook up your PS TV to a hotel or family members TV, and remote play from outside your own network location?
2. What kind of memory card does the PS TV support? (PS Vita memory cards? SD memory cards that where used in a PSP 3000? Or the PRO Duo cards?)
3. In the future will the PS Headset Gold be able to be used on PS TV via the USB port?
I have one PS4 which my brother and I share, we each have our own account on it. Are we able to have one of us playing on the PS4 with our own account and the other on the PS TV with the other account? If we can, for example, can we play online multiplayer Battlefield 4 which we each own on each of our accounts, one of us on PS4 and the other on PS TV.
Thanks.
Also one of the accounts is a Master account and the other is a sub account, due to this they both have access to the same Playstation Plus membership. ( sorry if this is confusing )
Was really excited for this so I could finally record Vita/PSP games but I’m going to have to cancel my pre-order due to the HDCP limitations. =/
I pre-ordered playstation Tv. In august, I cant wait for it. My ps4 is hooked to my 50″ tv down stairs in my den. I want to use it to remote play to my 50″ tv up stairs in my living room. $99 is alot cheeper to do this compared to $399 for another ps4.
Thinking about trading in my PS Vita for a Playstation TV. I am going to keep my 32 GB memory card. I want to buy a Dual Shock 4 controler just for the Playstation TV. I own a PS4 and remote play to my Vita all the time. My question is this. If I buy a Dual shock controler for my Playstation TV, will I still need to use my Dual Shock 4 from my PS4 when I use the remote play function with my Playstation TV? Also can Playstation TV remote plays away from the house like the PS Vita can? Lastly can we expect future Sony gaming head set support for the Dual shock for when in use with the Playstation TV?
thanks Gary
Will there be the option of downloading PS3/PS4 games from the Playstation Store to a memory card to play on the PS TV without having to stream every time you play?
Sony still has not confirmed Streaming entertainment providers (Vudu, Netflix, Hulu, etc). I am considering that a bad sign since it releases tomorrow. I might as well wait for AndroidTV at this point.
“PS TV will support 480p, 720p, and 1080i via HDMI output.”
So does this mean that:
a) Any video streaming app, like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, will only stream from those services at a resolution below 1080p?
b) Streaming to the PSTV from your PS4 will stream normal 1080p PS4 games at a sub-par resolution on that second television (the one connected to the PS4)?
If the answer to “a” is Yes, that might be a deal breaker for me. I was hoping to replace my Roku with the PSTV as my movie/television streaming device while adding the ability to play Vita, PSP, and PSOne games. But there’s not much more annoying that getting a bad, lower-resolution stream of a movie or television episode.
If the answer to “b” is Yes, that won’t bother me, since I already have a dedicated television for my PS4 all to myself and won’t need to stream my PS4 to another room. But it might bother others.
How does Sony hardware, PS TV, not support Sony headsets, the Gold Wireless Headset, Silver Headset, and Pulse Wireless Stereo Headset – Elite Edition?
Will the system be updated to support those headsets in the future?
As others have said, the bundle should include a DS4, not a DS3.
In addition, users should be able to plug in a headset through the DS4 and have the audio come through the headset.
Lower the memory card prices. People with larger memory cards will buy more games…
Will the system interface be updated to better fit a TV screen instead of a touchscreen?
If I buy a playstation tv can my wife and I play online games together at the same time when I am using my ps4?
I was under the impression that you needed a DS4 to play PS4 games, and a DS3 to play vita games. I just tried remote play with the DS3 and it worked. My question is… can I just use a DS4 to play everything? I haven’t tried the DS4 out yet, but it has MORE features than the DS3… I don’t see why not. It would be nice to only need one controller with the PSTV.
You should be able to stream a ps3 game your purchased off of the Playstation store.. a digital game only of course.. that would be cool.. to be able to purchase a PS3 game from the playstation store and play it on a TV without your PS3 hooked up to it.. get to work on that Sony!
i saw akiba’s trip in the list of games you can play on the ps tv in the ps store yet my physical copy still says its not supported?
There is news that we can use the Japanese version of the PS T.V. for anything because thanks to the maintenance that Sony did yesterday. Here is a link if you have doubts: http://www.dualshockers.com/2014/10/13/psn-maintenance-enabled-full-regional-compatibility-for-japanese-playstation-tv/
Sorry its incomplete: (Japenese version in no longer region locked of the PSVITA T.V.)
Is chat supported during PS4 remote play? This could be a deal breaker.
Does PS TV support external HDMI-based game capture devices?
PS TV supports HDCP (copy protection). HDCP cannot be turned off.
Please add the option to turn this off like was done on PS4
How does one register their PlayStationTV on the Sony Entertainment Network? There’s no place to register or activate a new system.
Will the playstation TV be able to connect to the PS3 Media Remote? I didn’t see that list anywhere in the FAQ.
So, after having my PS TV for 2 days now, I’m already pretty disappointed…
The best Vita games don’t even work (Gravity Rush, Uncharted, Mortal Kombat, Rayman Legends, Sound Shapes, Modnation Racer… just to name a few)
It refuses to launch the most basic of Vita streaming apps. (Netflix, Hulu, etc)
You can’t stream music/movies from your PC
You can’t connect to your PS3 AT ALL…
You can’t get rid of the incredibly stupid and unwanted “Featured” tab.
Really sad that I got so excited about a product that was touted as being a competitor for other set-top boxes (Roku, Chromecast) And it won’t even do anything but Crackle in that department. Then I find that all the games I was looking forward to playing on a big screen… (The Playstation Display I have…) They don’t even work…
I’ve never been this disappointed by a company/product before… I feel like I got a bait and switch.
Finally got my pstv today…had to work all day and had an opportunity to unbox it this evening. I got to the main screen where it tells me to connect my ps controller with a usb cord and press the playstation button. I connected my ds4, that i use everyday with and for my ps4 everyday and i got a message saying something along the lines of “cannot power device anymore. disconnect usb device.” I got the standalone product because i figured i’d be able to use my DS4 with no problems. I tried using a different USB cord, thinking the cord may the issue & I received the same message. So to make a long story long..it won’t let me sync my DS4 to the pstv so I can even start the system up to see whether I hate it, love it..or just meh. lol. Any suggestions?
Can you play the same game on both the PS4 and PSTV at the same time???
How can I get my “Instant Game Collection” games? There is no option in the PS Store, my PS3 has them downloaded (not my choice), also in your store I have been provisioned the games (aka it shoes that I have purchased them).
In the online PS store they games are listed as PSTV compatible. In the PS Store in the PSTV it says I should pay for the games.
No Netflix support?? Come on Sony! Add this, and I will get one of these so quickly. I REALLY want to replace our chromecast with this…
Can the Playstation TV support play videos from usb media like flashdrives and external HDD’s?
Q1.
Will the Play TV allow you to play a couch co-op game i.e. Player 1 = Main TV & PS4, second TV and PlayStation TV = Player 2
So you don’t have to have split screen for example.
I know you can do it through online but wondered if it allow offline just using your internal network.
Q2.
Regarding online multiplayer/co-op it’s stated you need a plus subscription, I am a PS Plus subscriber but my girlfriend who has her account on my PS4 is not, does this mean she has to have a plus subscription too or will it work fine? Surely you don’t need a subscription for each family member.
Sorry if this has already been asked/answered.
A cheap device like this for streaming video and such to my living room TV interests me but for one thing. I need to know if this device will let me stream Bluray movies from my PS4 to there too. If not, I’ll have to find something else.
this is the worst thing i have ever bought from sony. almost all the vita games i own are not supported,it displays in 1080 but only allows SD movies to be downloaded,no,netflix,youtube,or facebook,and remote play with ps4 is just as bad as vita with more button lag.i dont care if i lose money this is the getting returned asap
Does the PS TV support two PS plus accounts where one(ps plus account-husband) have bought a game(ps4,ps3,or psvita) and be able to play with (psplus account-wife) together on the same game without (psplus account-wife) having to be under the same account as the (psplus-husband).
Can you travel with this PS tv without having to use it in your home?
When will we get the white PS TV?
And will there be a dualshock 4 bundle?
Tested and confirmed that SAO Hollow Fragment is now compatible with PS TV! So happy about this!