PS4 system update 7.00 doubles max Party size, brings Remote Play to non-Sony Android devices

PlayStation 4 system update version 7.00 will launch this week, introducing improved Party chat functionality and expanded Remote Play support.

Revealed in the summer ahead of a beta test, the Party improvements include better audio quality and network connectivity, and an increase in the maximum Party size from eight to 16 participants.

In the US, the update will also add new accessibility support in the form of a chat transcription feature available through Party and the PS4 Second Screen app on mobile devices.

Sony says: “The new feature supports US English and converts party voice chat to text, or enables you to enter text that is read aloud to other party members.

“If using your mobile device to connect to your PS4 during a Party, you will now see a new Party tab has been added where the new functionality is available.”

PS4 system update 7.00 also expands Remote Play support, making the feature available on non-Sony smartphones and tablets running Android 5.0 or higher.

Remote Play, which enables users to stream select PS4 games on mobile devices, was previously restricted to compatible Sony Xperia Android devices, as well as iOS devices.

Following the PS4 update, players will also be able to use DualShock 4 wireless controllers via Bluetooth for Remote Play on Android, iPhone, iPad, and Mac. To do so, they’ll need to update to Android 10, iOS 13, iPadOS 13, or macOS Catalina (the latest updates for Apple hardware also introduced support for wireless Xbox controllers).

On iPhone and iPad, the Remote Play app will also let users always display the controller and lock the screen orientation.

Sony slashed PlayStation Now prices in early October in a bid to be more competitive with rival streaming services.