A companion device for PS5
The PlayStation Portal is a handheld device developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment to stream games from a PlayStation 5 over Wi-Fi. Released on November 15, 2023, it uses Remote Play to show on its screen a game running on the console. This lets someone play without using the television connected to the PS5.
Despite its handheld design, the Portal is not a standalone console: it does not run games or play media on its own. Its main function depends on a PS5 and the network connection needed to transmit the game picture and player inputs. This sets it apart from handheld devices that run games locally.
Screen, controls, and limitations
The PlayStation Portal pairs an 8-inch touch-enabled LCD screen, a resolution of 1920 by 1080 pixels, and a 60 Hz refresh rate with built-in controls modeled on the DualSense. Sony describes the controls as including the buttons and features of a DualSense controller. The touch screen can also be used to interact with the game interface during play.
In practical terms, the Portal is a way to access games streamed from a PS5 on a handheld screen, not a replacement for the console. Wi-Fi is essential for Remote Play, so the experience depends on the network connection. The available evidence also describes a cloud-gaming feature associated with PlayStation Plus Premium: testing began in 2024 and, according to that source, the feature left beta and became officially available in November 2025. This does not change the device’s central distinction: it is designed for streaming rather than local game execution.