PlayStation Portal Update Adds In-Game Purchases — A Game-Changer For Players

The PlayStation Portal is already changing how players enjoy their favourite titles, but a recent system update is set to redefine the experience.

This new feature introduces the convenience of in-game purchases directly through the handheld, making the remote play device far more versatile. For many gamers, this functionality is poised to become a true game-changer.

Key Upgrades Arrive for the PS Portal

The Sony PlayStation Portal recently received its most substantial feature enhancement yet, with a major update rolling out. This redesigned handheld now allows for in-game purchases and delivers noticeably smoother navigation. Here is a comprehensive look at the new additions and improvements.

The PlayStation Portal's main display has been completely revamped with this latest software update. Sony has now separated the user experience into three distinct sections, resulting in much more straightforward navigation. You will now find Remote Play in one area, Cloud Streaming in another, and a standalone Search tool in the third.

This new structure successfully addresses one of the primary issues owners raised about the previous interface. The improved movement means changing between playing styles now requires fewer interactions. Accessing the quick menu is also now possible on nearly all displays simply by using the PS Button, resolving the difficulty that affected the initial releases.

In-Game Purchasing Is Here

A highly anticipated feature has finally debuted: the ability to support in-game transactions while utilising cloud streaming. Users can now purchase virtual items, season passes, and game credits without pausing their current session. This alteration enables access to free-to-play titles and time-limited content directly through the portable system.

Before this update, many titles streamed from the cloud forced you to turn on your main PS5 system just to complete a transaction. The current setup makes the whole process much more efficient. Popular live-service games, such as Helldivers 2 and Fortnite, are now fully playable, with purchasing features working perfectly on the Portal.

Summary of New Features

In total, over 2,800 PS5 games are available for cloud streaming, with video streams up to 1080p at 60FPS. Crucially, in-game buying is now fully enabled during these cloud sessions. Additionally, immersive sound has been improved, with 3D Audio now functional on the Portal, and the remote connection lets you stream content directly from your PS5 console.

Cloud Streaming Exits Beta

The November 2025 update officially signalled the end of the cloud streaming trial phase on the PlayStation Portal. Two years after the portable device's release, users can now access the entire PS Plus Premium library without turning on their PS5 console. This change represents a significant redefinition of the device's main function.

The streaming quality noticeably advanced with this release. The Portal can now support a maximum resolution of 1080p at 60FPS for compatible games. Support for 3D audio was also included, delivering a more engaging playing session during cloud connections. Users are reporting that titles load faster than in earlier trial versions.

The Device Reaches Its Potential

For those who already own the Portal, this update fundamentally transforms the hardware into the product it was always expected to be. The inclusion of cloud streaming that no longer requires an active PS5 eliminates one of the most severe restrictions. Device owners can now enjoy the best PlayStation titles across their home without their main console ever running.

The enhanced interface movement makes the Portal feel like a finished product rather than a trial peripheral. Critics noted that switching between titles is considerably quicker. The standalone Search feature helps owners locate games within the enormous 2,800-title collection, resolving the prior challenge of finding content in an overly busy layout.

The Game-Changing Upgrade

Notably, the PlayStation Portal's latest update introduces vital functionality that not only streamlines the user experience but also greatly expands the device's capabilities. By moving beyond simple Remote Play and fully embracing cloud streaming with in-game purchasing, Sony has genuinely made the Portal a compelling, finished product for PS Plus Premium subscribers.