PlayStation has expanded its capabilities to include entertainment features as well. Both the PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 consoles give you access to movies, TV shows, sports, and music.
These consoles turn your living room into a multimedia paradise. Want to unleash the full streaming potential of your PlayStation? Take a closer look at the apps available and how to harness their power. Your entertainment journey starts here.
How to download streaming apps on your PlayStation console
Installing streaming apps on your PlayStation is easy – the process is the same whether you have a PS5 or PS4 – making it easy to set up your console for streaming.
Downloading apps on PS5
- Access the Media Home menu.
- First, head to your PS5's media home menu, where you'll find all of your entertainment options, including streaming apps.
- Select “All apps”:
- Once you are in the media home menu, locate the “All Apps” section, where you can browse the available apps.
- Select the app you want and download it:
- Browse the list of apps and select one you want to download. Then click Download. The app will start downloading and you can use it immediately.
- Access the app:
- Your PS5 media home will display up to 14 of your most recently used apps. To see all your downloaded apps, select App Library.
Download the app on PS4
Although the PS4 interface will be different from the PS5, downloading the app is easy. Users simply need to go to the PlayStation Store, search for the streaming app, and download it. Once downloaded, the app will appear in the media section of the PS4.
Popular streaming apps available for PlayStation consoles
PlayStation offers a variety of streaming apps to suit different tastes. Whether you're into movies, sports, anime or anything else, there's an app for you.
Movie and TV Streaming Apps
PlayStation consoles offer popular streaming services for movies and TV shows. Here are some of our favorites:
- Netflix leads the pack, offering everything from binge-worthy series to indie films.
- Amazon Prime Video follows suit, boasting blockbuster hits and hidden gems.
- Hulu caters to TV lovers with new shows and classics.
- Apple TV+ focuses on exclusive originals, while Max (formerly HBO Max) offers premium content.
- Peacock rounds out the field with NBC programming and live sports.
Sports Streaming App
For sports fans, there are several sports streaming apps available on the PlayStation console that will ensure that you never miss a match.
- ESPN Plus offers exclusive content across multiple leagues.
- The WWE Network broadcasts wrestling matches outside the United States.
- BT Sport offers football, rugby and UFC programming to audiences in the UK and Ireland.
- DAZN specializes in boxing and martial arts worldwide.
- NBC Sports covers everything from soccer to the Olympics.
- CBS Sports rounds out the lineup with NFL and college sports.
Each app offers live events, replays and expert analysis so fans never miss a moment of their favorite sports.
Animation Streaming App
PlayStation consoles offer a variety of streaming services: Crunchyroll specializes in anime and offers a vast library of Japanese shows and movies, Funimation offers anime with English dubs and exclusive content, and Disney Plus combines classic and new animated movies and series.
Live TV Streaming App
You can still watch live TV even if you cancel your cable subscription. PlayStation offers several apps for watching live TV.
- Sling TV offers customizable live channel packages.
- Plex streams live TV and on-demand content in addition to your personal library.
- Free services like Pluto TV and Tubi TV offer ad-supported live channels and on-demand entertainment.
- Vudu offers a mix of free and paid options, including rentals.
- If you want a cable-like experience without the contract, YouTube TV streams live major networks and cable channels.
Music Streaming Apps
To get in the mood or enjoy music while gaming, you can use your PlayStation console. There are various music streaming apps available.
- Spotify leads the way with its vast library and search capabilities.
- Apple Music syncs seamlessly across your iOS devices.
- Amazon Music captivates audiophiles with premium streaming.
- Pandora excels at personalized radio and artist discovery.
- Tidal offers exclusive content and great audio quality.
Each platform offers millions of songs and customizable playlists, allowing users to curate the perfect soundtrack for any mood or activity.
Other Streaming Apps
In addition to traditional streaming apps, PlayStation consoles offer several unique options to cater to specific interests.
- Twitch is the king of live gaming and creative streaming, where gamers come to watch and broadcast.
- YouTube covers all things video sharing, from music to vlogging.
- For anime and otaku content, VRV aggregates niche channels like Crunchyroll.
- Pluto TV delivers free live TV, on-demand programming and specialty channels.
Explore niche apps
Movie fans who prefer unconventional entertainment have plenty of options beyond the major streaming platforms. Apps like BeeTV, which isn't accessible on PlayStation but has an extensive library, are prime examples of this category. There are many similar platforms catering to audiences' appetite for independent films, documentaries, and obscure TV series.
These digital repositories serve as invaluable resources for anyone looking to discover hidden gems and go beyond mainstream content. Services like these offer access to a rich collection of diverse and underrated programming to entice adventurous audiences.
Troubleshooting PlayStation streaming apps
PlayStation consoles offer a powerful streaming experience. However, users may face issues with the app. Below are some common troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.
Checking PSN Status
If you can't access a streaming app, first check the status of the PlayStation Network (PSN). The PSN status page provides real-time updates on any outages or issues.
App updates
Outdated apps can cause problems. To make sure you have the latest version, highlight the app on your console. Then, press the Options button on your controller and[更新の確認]If an update is available, download and install it, which might fix the issue.
Updating your system software
For best performance, update your PlayStation software regularly. To check, go to Settings > System > System Software > Updates. If an update is available, download and install it.
Test your Internet connection
A slow or unstable internet connection can cause streaming interruptions. To test it,[設定]>[ネットワーク]>[インターネット接続のテスト]This will check your speed and signal, if you have any issues you may want to troubleshoot your network or contact your provider.
Restarting the Console
Sometimes a simple reboot can fix the issue. Press the PS button to open the Control Center. Then,[電源]>[PS5 を再起動]This will reboot your console and may fix minor glitches with the streaming app.
Reinstall the app
If the app continues to malfunction, try deleting and reinstalling the app. First, highlight the app, press the Options button, and select Delete. Then, go to the PlayStation Store or App Library, find the app, and download it again.
Clear the cache and rebuild the database
If the issue persists, try booting your PS5 into Safe Mode. Then select “Clear cache and rebuild database.” This can fix complex software issues that may affect app performance.
Conclusion
Stream blockbuster movies, indie films, and live sports on PlayStation. It's not just a gaming hub, it's also a hub for entertainment. Netflix and Disney Plus are staples, but new favorites like BeeTV are also on offer. Your console gives you endless viewing options, from animated classics to cutting-edge programming. Just power up and dive into a sea of digital fun right from your living room.