Summary

  • Sony is introducing a new PS5 update allowing players to easily invite others to multiplayer sessions through shareable links.
  • PS5 players can generate links on a console or app, share via social platforms, and join sessions without being friends.
  • Unique widget on Discord shows real-time status of multiplayer sessions, making it easier for players to join PS5 games.

Sony has announced the next PlayStation 5 update will introduce a new feature for gamers interested in hosting online multiplayer sessions: the ability to invite other players or friends through a link. While the PlayStation 5 boasts a number of stellar single-player games, multiplayer games are a large part of the console's library. The PS5 has a number of features that support online gaming, such as the PlayStation App.

The PlayStation App allows players to browse the digital storefront, read news about the latest releases, and message or chat with friends and other gamers. The app also allows players to keep track of their progress on the PlayStation Stars loyalty program as well. With this app bringing integration between mobile devices and the PS5 console, Sony is introducing a new feature that affects both and can be used for inviting players to PS5 gaming sessions more easily.

PlayStation has shared how an upcoming update will introduce the ability to generate a shareable link on either the PS5 console or PlayStation app, which can then be shared with other gamers. When this link is opened, the recipient will be able to join the host's multiplayer session, even if they aren't on their friends list. This link can be shared through other messaging or social media platforms like Discord or Twitter, making for an easy way for other gamers to join in a current gaming session.

  • PS5 gamers can share a multiplayer session invite on any social platform
  • Allows for players to easily join a host's multiplayer session without needing to be friends
  • Can be generated through the PS App or PS5 console
  • Can be a URL or scannable QR code

One of the PS5's most popular online multiplayer games, Baldur's Gate 3, was used by Sony as an example. It demonstrates that players can create the link through their PlayStation app, in the form of a URL or QR code, and then share it for anyone to join their existing session. This feature exists to complement the existing methods on PS5, as well as for players to expedite their multiplayer sessions without needing to add each other as friends on PS5 first. Players sharing these links over Discord will see a unique widget on the platform that dynamically updates in real-time to show the current multiplayer session, allowing players to see if the host is still active or not before they join.

Another feature that will be added in the coming months is the ability for players to share their or another user's PlayStation Network profile on any messaging or social media platform through the same link generation feature on the PlayStation App, the PS5 console, or the web profile. This will also allow players to easily add each other on PlayStation without needing to search for the user themselves. Most games should already be supporting this new feature, but PlayStation noted that some PS5 games may require an update for the sessions to work seamlessly.

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PS5
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Brand
Sony
Original Release Date
November 12, 2020
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Sony's PlayStation 5 is part of the ninth console generation and debuted with a launch lineup that included Demon's Souls and Astro's Playroom. The console comes with a Blu-ray disc, although a digital-only edition is also available for a cheaper price.

Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info
Hardware Versions
PS5
Original MSRP (USD)
Disc Edition: $499.99; Digital Edition: $399.99
Weight
Disc Edition: 9.9 LBS; Digital Edition: 8.6 LBS