Everyone is well aware of the PS5’s reputation as a powerful next-generation gaming console that excels in handling top-notch games. Nevertheless, Sony has a longstanding history, dating back to the PS2 era, of crafting consoles that double as impressive entertainment systems.
Building upon this legacy, the PS5 has taken a step further, pushing the boundaries of a gaming console to become an all-encompassing hub of entertainment. In addition to gaming, the PS5 offers a plethora of exciting features and functionalities that enhance its versatility.
Let’s delve into all the cool things you can do with a PS5 right here.
Stream movies and TV shows
The PlayStation Store offers a wide range of popular streaming services you can download on your PS5. This way, you will turn your console into an all-in-one entertainment system.
Some of the well-known video streaming apps available include:
- Netflix
- HBO Max
- Disney+
- Apple TV
- Amazon Prime Video
- YouTube
- Twitch
- Funimation
- Peacock
- Hulu
- Crunchyroll
- ESPN
- Plex
- Tubi
Certain regions may have access to additional streaming services such as BBC iPlayer in the UK.
Source: Sony PlayStation 5
Do note that region restrictions still apply to the content you can access. For instance, your Netflix options will be based on your IP address location, not the location where you registered your PlayStation Network account. So, if you have a PSN account registered in the UK but are currently in the United States, you will see the US Netflix content unless you use a VPN to bypass these restrictions.
Listen to music
Similar to movies and videos, you can enjoy music on your PS5 via various online streaming services. Yet, if you prefer to steer clear of music videos, your options are currently limited to Apple Music and Spotify.
Spotify allows you to stream music for free, while you need to subscribe to Apple Music to access its extensive library. Alternatively, you can create a Music folder on a USB stick and play your music directly through the Music menu in the control center of your PS5.
Source: Google
Feel free to enhance your audio experience on the PS5 by connecting wired headsets or Bluetooth audio speakers. This way, you can conveniently use your PS5 as a music player while carrying on with your day-to-day activities.
Stay connected with gaming communities
Your PS5 provides a great way to stay connected with the gaming communities you love. It automatically presents you with live streams, video recommendations, and screenshots from other players who are enjoying the same games as you. Additionally, you can read (or watch) the latest official news related to the games in your library.
To access the game’s information, highlight a game on the main menu and press down on the D-pad. Continue pressing down until you reach the videos and news section. You can also side-scroll to explore more news and information about the game.
Source: Sony PlayStation 5
In the main menu, you’ll find an Explore section located right next to the PlayStation Store. This section allows you to keep track of the games you follow, as if they are part of your library. You can add or remove games you follow by selecting Followed Games on the top right page of Explore. Additionally, you can manage the games you follow by going to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Followed Games.
If you’d like to follow a game that is not currently in your library, you can easily do so. Look for the game in the PlayStation Store, select the three dots located under its name, and choose Follow. This way, you can stay updated on the latest news and updates for games you’re interested in, even if you haven’t purchased them yet.
Play Blue-rays or DVDs
The non-Digital Edition of the PS5 allows you to play DVDs and high-quality Blu-ray discs. This expands its functionality as a comprehensive entertainment system.
To use this feature, insert your DVD or Blu-ray disc into the console. The PS5 will read the disc, and the media player app will automatically open, allowing you to interact with the content. If you have a 4K-compatible screen, the PS5 will instantly play Blu-ray discs in 4K resolution.
Source: Google
Keep in mind that the PS5 does not support CDs. If you have information stored on CDs that you’d like to access on your PS5, you should transfer the content to a USB stick and use that as an alternative method of playback.
Surf the internet
Though it requires a little bit of workaround, your PS5 has a hidden browser feature that can be accessed. To use it, however, you need to trick the console. Open the browser, then log into your Twitter account. Select the option to sign in with Google, and work out how to open Google web page from there.
Source: Sony PlayStation 5
Note that this browser is quite limited in functionality and lacks support for multimedia content. However, in situations where you urgently need to look something up and your only available device is the PS5, it can serve as a basic browsing tool.
Text and call your friends
With the PS5’s Game Base feature, you can easily connect with your friends through voice chats or text messages. Creating a party on your PS5 allows you to add your friends and engage in communication with them.
To access these features, open the control center on your PS5 and navigate to Game Base. In the pop-up window that appears, you have the option to create a new message to send to your friends or create a party where you can share your screen and initiate voice calls with your friends.
Source: Sony PlayStation 5
It’s worth noting that if your friends have the PS App installed on their phones, they will receive notifications when you message them. This is just one of the many useful functionalities offered by the PlayStation App, which enhances your overall gaming experience and connectivity with friends.
Not a game console only
The PS5 is not just a game console. It can be seen as a highly capable computer in its own right. While its primary purpose is gaming, the only thing that sets it apart from a full-fledged desktop is its limited operating system.
Sony has made a conscious decision to keep the PS5’s user interface simple and avoid unnecessary complexity. However, there is room for the addition of more features to further enhance its potential as a comprehensive entertainment system. Nevertheless, the PS5 already offers a multitude of cool and hidden features that contribute to its overall appeal.
