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.
Support for the PlayStation branded headsets would be nice ><.
Will PlayStation Mobile Developers be able to take advantage of couch co-op?
Why don’t just allow the Vita to use Android instead of that PlayStation Mobile?
Does the PS TV support adhoc multiplayer with the vita? (I want that Modnation platinum :) )
“Does PS TV offer sub-accounts? How do they work?
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I am thinking that only PS One Classics & maybe PlayStation Minis will be multi-player like on a PS3 or PS4.
PS Now will for sure be multi-player as it is streaming on a PS3 that supports multi-player.
Remote Play (I am not sure as with a Current Vita you have to be where the PS4 recognizes the remote and you can see both players on the Vita)
PS Vita & PSP (PlayStation Portable) I am thinking will work as they did on their native platforms and offer single player experiences and if you want multi-player you need more than one system and another copy of the game.
So that download voucher for “The Lego Movie” will only work for the primary Vita TV User and if other sub-accounts/Family Members want to play that have to play it under the primary users account (No seperate save games unless that game has save slots and only the primary user will earn trophies.)
Remember currently on a Vita you can share physical media not digital. (Sad but True)
Since the Dualshock 4 is supported can users plug headsets into its jack for voice chat or headset use?
You are not including a charging cable?
Seriously?
People are going to use their PS TV…the batteries are going to run out…and they will have NO IDEA how to charge it.
You could have tossed in a 6 inch cord.
C’mon, SCEA!
Skywarrd on October 7th, 2014 at 8:15 am said:
Wait…..no 1080p video output? Really?
I dido this ! Really Sony NO 1080P this day an age ! Come on !
i love you guys, i have a question:
will the ps vita store be updated the day the ps tv launches? (as there are games like metal gear solid, valkyria chronicles 2, that will be available day one for ps tv but to this day they arent on the ps vita store).
Will the party app be available on the PS tv during remote play on ps4? The vita kicks you out as soon as remote play is started and I would like the option to chat while in remote play.
Will the audio jack on the Dualshock 4 ever be usable with the Vita TV?
What do I have to do to get you to allow PS1 games and PS1 Classics from PSN to run on a PS4? Like, what do you need? Can I do anything for you?
Will Sony be actively contacting other companies about getting their games approved for PlayStation TV? I’m not even necessarily talking about games that require patches, I also mean games that were released after the Vita TV in Japan that are compatible, but are not yet on the North American compatibility list (such as Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds, which uses no touchscreen, motion, or camera inputs).
SUPPORT MULTIPLE ACCOUNTS!!!!
Was highly interested in this when announced. Now not going to bother until Multiple Accounts are supported. Would love it on Vita’s also…
So it doesn’t have a Vita Game Card slot?! Are you kidding me!? Most of my Vita games are physical and no way in hell am I buying them again. You just lost a PS TV customer.
Can I use the DS4 to play any game on the Vita TV or PS TV (I still prefer the JP name), or is it only usable for PS4 games?
Will PSP and PS1 compatible games for both this and Vita grow or will we keep the same list (I still can’t play Crash Team Racing)?
How will translating touch functionality to the analog sticks work if you are supposed to keep moving or doing something else in the game?
Sony you would have been better off using the money invested in PS TV to produce new AAA Vita exclusive games instead.
I can’t believe there’s no Vita game card slot, no 1080p, no wireless headset support, no multiple account support. It’s like the Vita version of the PSP Go, except without a screen. :(
Thanks for the FAQ! Here are a couple more questions I have that I didnt see answered:
1. Will you be able to use physical copies of Vita games with the PS TV?
2. What kind of memory card is supported. Can I use the same kind of memory card I use with my Vita?
Thanks!
So I won’t be able to play games that I’ve got on disc, but will be able to play downloaded games. So much for playing destiny in another room. Pstv doesn’t look so appealing now
1. Does de audio input on the DualShock 4 works while playing the vita TV? Can I use it to hear the game?
2. Will the Playstation Vita Tvs bought in other regions work with the NA account after the NA launch?
3. Can I play with more than one player while remote playing my PS4? As in continuing a couch coop game on the room where the vita TV is installed?
I will check here later for some replies, thanks!
“Does PS TV support external HDMI-based game capture devices?
PS TV supports HDCP (copy protection). HDCP cannot be turned off.”
Sigh, pre-order canceled . This was the option i wanted the most .
How does Playstation TV work with regards to console activation? I have a PS3, Vita & PSP that are all currently activated. Will I have to deactivate one of them to make room for the PSTV?
I currently have two Vitas that share my account. If I get Playstation TV, will I have to deactivate one of my Vitas in order to share the digital content that I’ve purchased or gotten through Playstation Plus? If I do have to deactivate one of those, then it’s a major deal breaker…
The FAQ says that party chat is supported during remote play, which is not a working feature on the Vita. Is this a typo or is this accurate?
Please let this mean you guys will continue investing on PSP and PS1 titles both in library releases and compatibility additions in the future.
I’m a huge supporter of legacy content and it’s one of the main things I love about Playstation.
Sort of off topic, any update on the Viacom stream service?
Question that isn’t answered by this “Ultimate FAQ!”
Q: Does the Playstation TV play import games that are perfectly supported on the Vita TV?
For example, I have Puyo Puyo Tetris, it runs fine on my ‘merican Vita and the back of the box says it’s supported on the Vita TV(The asian name for Playstation TV) will it still work despite not being on the offcial list?
It would really suck if the Playstation TV was region locked and only games on that list worked.
Is Netflix, crunchyroll or any other movie and tv streaming will be available to ps tv?
So lame that you can’t use the wireless gold headset or any other headsets plus you need a memory card.
@64 Yes the Vita TV has a game slot …it will work exactly like a PSVita device
I have some questions :
1- is it ok to use the same memory card i use on my PS Vita? Will all the content on the memory card be displayed on PS TV?
2- is the PS TV power supply multivoltage?
3- is it possible to remote play a PS3?
4- Do PS TV updates release at the same time as the PS Vita?
That’s all i have for now, i hope you answer.
Can you guys please have Gravity Rush and Uncharted (Vita) working on this ? Would be an instant purchase is so. :)
I’m about to cut the cord, so if this thing can do Hulu, I’m in. Playing my Vita games and streaming my PS4 games will just be an added bonus.
Sony should consider adding DLNA/Media Server support if you want to move more units. Perhaps adding apps that can support that feature.
Granted the Home Streaming market is saturated in North America, but with Sony offering Music and Video rentals, this seemed like a no brainer.
People don’t want another “box” connected to their TV.
@80
1- is it ok to use the same memory card i use on my PS Vita? Will all the content on the memory card be displayed on PS TV? Yes..just know it will move around your bubbles
2- is the PS TV power supply multivoltage? Can’t answer that one 110?
3- is it possible to remote play a PS3? No the app has been removed
4- Do PS TV updates release at the same time as the PS Vita? If your referring to game updates ..then yes
My hope is that enough of these PS TVs sell, so that Sony starts making more AAA games for the Vita/PS TV
And for anyone who’s asking I have a Import VitaTv with the new 3.30 firmware and can answer most of your questions!
Will it be possible to do a Remote Play from another network than the home network where the PS4 is plugged-in? Let’s say I want to play from my office and my PS4 would be at home. Both networks with good bandwidth.
Is there any way to achieve this with the PS TV?
@87 Yes it will work!…It also works on the Vita also. I have even played out of the country!
This is somewhat of a disappointment when it comes down to no Pulse/Gold/Silver headset compatibility. So what am I suppose to do: Just connect the stereo jack towards the Dualshock 4 or the TV (where there is a plug for a speaker since it would allow me to hear from the headset using a jack – and that is since I have an LG TV)?
Besides, will there be a campanion app in the future? Because Pulse/Elite/Gold/Silver users would want to use their headset towards playing as well. So this means that if they’re playing remotely on the PS4 (with the jack), players would not be able to bring their headset to say an internet cafe or something like that.
@89 The PlayStation Tv supports Bluetooth so you can connect any bluetooth headset (Astro A38 etc) to support chat features etc.
Will the Japanese model firmware be updated to support signing in with an Americas SEN account?
Oh wait
EU Blog
Will PS TV support media servers or DLNA support in order to stream videos or movies from a home PC?
The Network Media Player (coming soon to PS TV and PS Vita) can be used to access media servers over a network. The Network Media Player can be used to view photos and stream music and videos from a media server located on your home network. You can also copy photos, music and video files from the media server to your system.
Hey mancub194, is your unit working with NA accounts already? or do I have to buy the NA PS TV to be able to use NA accounts?
Thanks!
I wanted one of these so bad until I saw no 1080p. It just means the marketing department intends to sell another version in a year.
@88 Thank you! Is there a big lag? Would it be possible to remote play games like Destiny and Diablo 3?
While playing a game on my PS4 can I still use the remote play feature to play another(the same) game on a different tv?
Can we get a list of games that will function properly / will not function properly?
Or should we just wait for a Vita emulator for PC?
I’ve have mine on October 14th. Most of the question about Netflix has already been asked. My question is Sony can get the official UFC app? Don’t like live events app. Also when you make the PS4 blu-ray remote make it thin like the PS2 remote. I know that remote wasn’t blu-ray, but it was the perfect remote to me.
I’ve have mine on October 14th. Most of the question about Netflix have already been asked. My question is Sony can get the official UFC app? Don’t like live events app. Also when you make the PS4 blu-ray remote make it thin like the PS2 remote. I know that remote wasn’t blu-ray, but it was the perfect remote to me.