Sony recently revealed that the PS5 will lack web browser functionality. In a lengthy AV Watch Impress interview with Senior Vice President Hideaki Nishino and Executive Vice President Masayasu Ito, the two explained the decision not to include a browser, but also said it is looking into the decision further. It also offered details regarding the PS5’s lack of support for 1440p output.
Nishino is in charge of platform planning and management, while Ito is in charge of hardware engineering and operations. Nishino, in particular, commented on the console’s lack of an internet browser. We’ve translated his statement below:
We currently have no intention of implementing a web browser on the PS5. Of course, the console does use components for various network functions, however, we have doubts regarding whether a browser app is necessary on a video game console. So please allow us to assess this thoroughly. Implementing a web browser would require a certain amount of time and effort due to the need for things like parental controls.
Among the other topics discussed, the two VPs commented further on the PS5’s lack of 1440p output. The system does not support in its current state. However, Nishino said the reason for this is to “make TV support a top priority.” Ito elaborated by saying, “Technically speaking, there is no issue.” It’s likely that Sony will carefully watch market trends and will respond accordingly if there is considerable demand from consumers for 1440p support.
It seems that Sony could be watching trends and consumer feedback for multiple functionalities—not just the PS5 web browser and 1440p support. The company confirmed it is exploring USB drive storage support for the console, as well.
The PlayStation 5 will launch in North America, Japan, Australia, and South Korea on November 12, 2020. The release for the rest of the world will follow on November 19, 2020.
