Features (PS Vita Remote Play, Digital Entertainment & More)
When we think of features, the first thing that comes to mind is the console’s PlayStation Dynamic Menu. Upgraded from the XrossMediaBar on PS3, the new interface features multitasking during gameplay, including web browsing, along with Netflix and Amazon Instant Video available to instantly start up on your main opening screen. For those of you with high-end HDTVs, 3D Technology and 4K Resolution are some of the biggest components within the resolution performance qualities, if you want the most clear and vivid gaming experience the market. At the moment, 4K and 3D have no games, but images and movie content will support the feature. Backwards compatibility won’t be on the system in comparison to PlayStation 3, so keeping those older consoles if you want to reminisce on some classics would likely be key.
Transitioning back to video services, NFL Sunday Ticket sadly won’t be available on the PlayStation 4 at launch, due to the exclusive partnership with Xbox Live, but there’s still plenty of apps to keep you busy for the next few months. On launch day with the previously mentioned Netflix and Amazon Instant Video; NBA Game Time, Redbox Instant, NHL Gamecenter, Crack, Hulu Plus, Vudu and Epix are some of the key apps you’ll be able to enjoy when taking a break from gaming. HBOGO is still not on the system yet, but we’re hoping to see an announcement early next year before 2014 e3.
Speaking of apps, there will also be an official PlayStation App enabled on iOS and many Android-based devices used as second screens. The PlayStation Vita will serve as remote play option and second screen to control the console, but you can use the your smartphone phone (if compatible) to get updates and purchase PS4 games to download if you’re away from home to be ready whenever you return for instant play.
Closing out the with Digital Entertainment, the PlayStation 4 will have two big entertainment services being Sony Network Entertainment’s Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited. Both services will be available at launch for the PS4 with Music Unlimited being a cloud-based service you can stream while on the PS4 or on the go for PS Vita, Android phones and tablets, and iOS devices such as iPhone. Video Unlimited will feature new movies weeks before they release to Blu-ray among TV shows the day after initial air dates. You’ll be able to stream on PlayStation 3, PS Vita, BRAVIA TV, and Xperia Smartphones signed into your single SEN (Sony Entertainment Network) account.