PS4 support may be nearing its conclusion, yet rest assured that Blu-ray disc playback on existing consoles remains unaffected.
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) and its successor, the PlayStation 5 (PS5), have shared the limelight for an extended period due to ongoing stock issues with the PS5. As the gaming landscape evolves, the PS4, with its ability to play Blu-ray discs, continues to offer a budget-friendly option for movie enthusiasts [1].
Despite being replaced by the PS5 in 2020, the PS4 remains a viable choice for those seeking a Blu-ray player with gaming functionality. However, it's important to note that the PS4 does not support 4K Blu-ray discs or Dolby Atmos, features that the PS5 offers [2].
While game developers are reportedly winding down support for the PS4 versions of their titles, there is no indication that Sony will discontinue Blu-ray movie playback on the console [1]. This is because the feature is part of the console's built-in media capabilities, managed by system software updates rather than game or online services [2].
Sony has announced plans to continue software support for the PS4 through 2025, including system updates, online multiplayer, and digital store access. However, support will gradually wind down as focus shifts to the PS5 [1][2]. Even after gaming updates and online services end, the PS4 is expected to function as a Blu-ray player, as this is a hardware feature independent of gaming services.
The PS4's support for high-dynamic-range video content (HDR10) allows for high-quality video content viewing. Additionally, 4K streaming is available on the PS4 via various services [2].
In contrast, the PS5 supports 4K Blu-ray disc playback and Dolby Atmos via HDMI eARC, offering an improved media consumption experience [3]. The PS5's support for Dolby Atmos can provide immersive audio for movies as well as games.
In conclusion, while the gaming landscape for the PS4 is changing, the console's Blu-ray playback capabilities remain unaffected. Even as Sony phases out gaming updates and online services for the PS4, the console will likely remain a capable Blu-ray player for the foreseeable future.
| Aspect | Status and Implications | |---------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------| | PS4 Software Support | Active through 2025; gradual wind-down expected by early 2026[1][2] | | Game Updates and Online Services | Ending gradually; major titles focus on PS5 now; some game servers may end in late 2025[3][4] | | Blu-ray Movie Playback | Expected to continue unaffected during and after software support phase because it relies on hardware and basic system software, not online services[1][2] |
[1] Sony Interactive Entertainment [2] TechRadar [3] Tom's Guide [4] IGN
- The PS4, despite being surpassed by the PS5 in 2020, offers a reasonable option for individuals seeking a Blu-ray player with gaming functionality, particularly due to its continued support for high-dynamic-range video content (HDR10) and 4K streaming.
- Although the PS4 does not support 4K Blu-ray discs or Dolby Atmos, features that the PS5 offers, it still provides a viable option for people looking for budget-friendly Blu-ray playback capabilities with gaming functionality.
- In the news regarding the PS4's continued software support, Sony has announced plans to keep the system updated through 2025, including system updates, online multiplayer, and digital store access, but these updates will eventually wind down as the focus shifts to the PS5.
- As part of the continuing software support for the PS4, it is expected that the console will continue to function as a Blu-ray player even after gaming updates and online services end, as this is a hardware feature independent of gaming services.
- In contrast, the PS5 supports superior media consumption experiences, offering 4K Blu-ray disc playback and Dolby Atmos via HDMI eARC, providing immersive audio not only for games but also for movies.
