Sony has rolled out a firmware update for the PS Portal handheld device, introducing a significant battery management feature designed to improve the peripheral’s battery longevity. The system software version 7.1.7 adds the option for users to restrict charging to 80% capacity.
This new setting aims to help preserve the long-term health of the PS Portal’s battery by preventing it from fully charging to 100%, a practice known to degrade battery cells over time. The update is targeted specifically at players using the PS Portal for Remote Play, Sony’s handheld streaming accessory for PlayStation consoles.
The PS Portal launched as a specialised device for Remote Play sessions, providing PlayStation owners with portable access to their consoles’ game libraries. Battery life and durability are key considerations for such mobile peripherals, making this update relevant for users concerned about maintaining device performance over extended periods.
Firmware Update Details and Availability
The v7.1.7 update is now available to download and includes the new charge-limiting option in the system settings menu. Players can enable this feature to cap the device’s battery charge at 80%, potentially extending the effective lifespan of the PS Portal’s battery and reducing the frequency of replacements.
Beyond this feature, no additional changes or enhancements have been specified. The update focuses solely on improving battery management, aligning with broader industry trends emphasising device longevity on portable gaming hardware.
Impact on PlayStation Users
This firmware update affects users of the PS Portal regardless of which PlayStation console they own, as the device operates independently as a Remote Play handheld. It does not impact standard PlayStation consoles or other peripheral devices.
Players who rely on the PS Portal for extended Remote Play sessions will find the new feature useful for managing their device’s battery health, especially if they intend to use the handheld regularly over a long period. By capping the maximum charge, Sony addresses concerns about battery degradation which can affect portable gaming accessories.
Sony has not announced any further planned updates for the PS Portal related to power management or new functionalities forthcoming after v7.1.7.
