PlayStation could launch a new cloud gaming service to compete with Xbox Cloud Gaming

The Verge reported that PlayStation plans to develop a new cloud gaming service. The medium above indicates that Sony has opened 22 job searches related to cloud gaming technologies to add candidates to its Future Technology Group (FTG).

“As a member of Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Future Technology Group (FTG), you will have the opportunity to lead the cloud gaming revolution. FTG is at the forefront of putting console-quality video games on any device,” the offers from Job.

Among the responsibilities that are mentioned in the positions to be filled, one is the one that attracts the most attention. “Develop and deliver the strategic vision for cloud game streaming on PlayStation” indicates one of the vacancies. It is evident, then, that the Asians are planning something big with cloud gaming at the center of the scene.

It is still tough to paint a strong picture of Sony’s plans with this possible new proposal linked to cloud gaming. Let’s not forget that the company already had a platform dedicated exclusively to this work called PlayStation Now. It continues to exist, but it is practically hidden.

The option to play from the cloud from a PS4, PS5, or PC is only accessible through the PlayStation Plus Premium plan. Plus, it only works in the 19 countries that PS Now became available in before its merger with PS Plus. But that’s not all, since the titles that can be played via streaming are even those of PlayStation 4; those of PlayStation 5 are not included.

PlayStation would have a renewed push for cloud gaming.

The Verge indicates that Sony is hiring more people for the Future Technology Group than in any other area of ​​​​PlayStation. In addition, he ensures that the company is pushing more aggressively for the patenting of cloud gaming technologies. These would be unmistakable indications that Jim Ryan would be working on a new cloud gaming service, although it would not be a project to launch to the public immediately.

Beyond the rumors and speculation that can be made in this regard, there is a logic behind PlayStation’s apparent interest in expanding its presence in cloud gaming. Especially if we consider that today the space is forcefully dominated by Microsoft and its Xbox Cloud Gaming, available to Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Playing AAA titles from the day they are released, directly from the web or through mobile and tablet apps, is a feature that has given Redmond great results so far.

In fact, during the investigation into the Activision Blizzard purchase, the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) revealed some fascinating statistics. Although it was not precise in detail, the agency commented that, in 2022, Xbox Cloud Gaming amassed a monthly market share of between 60 and 70%. While NVIDIA GeForce Now and Sony’s integrated alternative to PlayStation Plus was split between 10-20% each. Further behind were Google’s Stadia and Amazon’s Luna, with less than 5% each.

What role does the next Sony portable console play?

For now, it is impossible to know if Sony’s idea is to revive PlayStation Now as an independent product and launch it in more territories. Or if you aspire to start a new cloud gaming platform from scratch to compete directly with Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce Now. But the rumors that the Japanese would be preparing a new portable console are also beginning to gain relevance.

Days ago, we told you that Sony would be working on a device known internally as Q Lite. The gadget’s prototype would be very similar to the PS5 DualSense controller, but with the difference that it would integrate an 8-inch screen. The original report claimed that the Asians intended to develop this device exclusively with Remote Play. This technology lets you play PlayStation titles on a mobile, tablet, or computer.

So, unlike the PSP or PS Vita, it wouldn’t be meant to run games natively. And the possibility that it was used to stream video games from the cloud was also ruled out, which sounded somewhat illogical. After all, the effort seemed focused on creating an accessory for the PlayStation 5 rather than presenting a product that could have a life of its own.

Now, the effort to develop a new portable console would make more sense if a new cloud gaming service accompanied it. It is still speculation, but it seems that this could be a more feasible project for Jim Ryan’s men.