Starting tomorrow, you can download the latest system update (version 3.50) for the PlayStation 4. Along with more social-based features, Sony provided details on Remote Play for PC and Mac.
After the update is installed on the PlayStation 4, you’ll have to download the Remote Play installer on your computer. For Windows-based PCs, the streaming feature works on Windows 8.1 and 10 systems. For Mac users, you’ll need to have OS X Yosemite (10.10) or El Capitan (10.11).
At launch, you’ll have a maximum resolution of 720p, but the stream will default to a resolution of 540p. In addition, you’ll get to play at 60 frames per second (the default setting is 30 frames per second).
Obviously, you’ll also get to use the DualShock 4 controller, which will need to be plugged in to your PC or Mac device via a USB cable. This means that Sony will finally have an official driver for the controller. In the past, users had to rely on third-party drivers (such as DS4Windows) to use the DualShock 4 on the PC.
As far as social features are concerned, the new update will also show what games are being played by every member of your party, and you can now schedule gameplay events for you and your friends. You can also get notifications when a certain friend is online, or you can choose to appear offline while you play.
The 720p resolution at launch might be distressing to some, but it’s important to note that Microsoft didn’t have 1080p/60fps support when it initially launched the Xbox One streaming feature on Windows 10 last July. That feature was added one month later. It’s unclear whether or not Sony will follow the same timeline, but with enough feedback, the company could (and should) add 1080p/60fps streaming support in the near future.
