The PlayStation 5 has revolutionized gaming in many ways, including social play features like SharePlay. However, there are times when this feature doesn’t work as expected. SharePlay allows players to share their screen with friends, enabling them to join in on the fun without needing to own the game. But various factors can lead to malfunctions in this feature. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why PS5 SharePlay may not be working and provide comprehensive solutions to help you resolve the issues.
Understanding PS5 SharePlay
In order to troubleshoot SharePlay problems, it’s fundamental to understand how the feature operates.
What is SharePlay?
SharePlay is a functionality provided by PlayStation, enabling users to share their game sessions with friends online. With SharePlay, you can invite a friend to watch your game, give them control of the game, or even let them play a session on their console.
Requirements for SharePlay
To enjoy SharePlay, both you and your friend must meet the following requirements:
- Both players need a PlayStation Plus subscription.
- Both need to be on an active internet connection with a stable speed.
- The game being played must support SharePlay functionality.
- Both consoles should be on the latest software version.
Having a firm grasp of these requirements can help you quickly identify potential problems when SharePlay is malfunctioning.
Common Reasons SharePlay is Not Functioning
When SharePlay fails to work, it’s often due to one of these common reasons:
Internet Connection Issues
A stable and strong internet connection is paramount for effective SharePlay. If either of the two players experiences latency or disconnection issues, SharePlay will definitely be affected.
Software Glitches
Software bugs can arise from various updates or temporary issues within the console’s operating system. If either player has not kept their software up to date, it may lead to SharePlay dysfunctionality.
PCIe Compatibility Problems
PCIe-related problems can hinder the performance of different gaming functions, including SharePlay. Even a minor conflict or incompatibility issue can cause SharePlay to work only sporadically.
Game-Specific Limitations
Not all games support SharePlay equally. Some titles might have restrictions that prevent you from fully utilizing SharePlay, especially when it comes to multiplayer gaming.
Troubleshooting Steps for SharePlay Issues
If you find your PS5 SharePlay isn’t functioning as expected, consider the following troubleshooting steps that can help you get back to the game.
Step 1: Check Internet Connection
Make sure both you and your friend have a reliable and fast internet connection. Here are methods to test your connectivity:
- Run a speed test using a service like Ookla or Fast.com.
- Try connecting to a wired network if you’re currently on Wi-Fi for a more stable connection.
Ensure you both have at least a download speed of 5 Mbps for optimal performance.
Step 2: Update Software
Keeping your console software updated is crucial. Here’s how to do it:
To Update the PS5 System Software
- Go to “Settings” on your PS5 home screen.
- Click on “System Software.”
- Select “System Software Update and Settings.”
- Choose “Update System Software.”
Always ensure that your friend performs the same steps, as both consoles need the latest version for SharePlay to function smoothly.
Step 3: Restart Both Consoles
Sometimes, all it takes is a good restart. Turn both consoles off completely and power them back on after a couple of minutes. This simple step can often resolve minor glitches.
Step 4: Check Game Compatibility
Make certain the game you are trying to use with SharePlay supports the feature. Search online or refer to the game’s manual to know if there are restrictions related to SharePlay.
Step 5: Change DNS Settings
Sometimes altering your DNS settings can help improve connectivity, potentially solving SharePlay issues. Follow these steps to modify your DNS settings:
How to Change DNS Settings on PS5
- Navigate to “Settings.”
- Select “Network.”
- Go to “Settings” and then “Set Up Internet Connection.”
- Choose your network (Wi-Fi or LAN) and select “Advanced Settings.”
- Change the DNS settings to either Google’s DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare’s DNS (1.1.1.1).
This change can often provide a more stable connection, helping SharePlay work seamlessly.
Advanced Solutions for Persistent Issues
If you’ve gone through the basic troubleshooting steps and SharePlay is still not functioning, you may need to explore more advanced solutions.
Reinstall the Game
Corrupted game files may also lead to SharePlay challenges. Deleting and reinstalling the game can often resolve underlying issues.
How to Reinstall a Game on PS5
- From the PS5 home screen, navigate to the game you wish to delete.
- Press the options button, then select “Delete.”
- Go to the PlayStation Store and re-download the game.
This refresh can fix potential glitches linked to the installation.
Reset Network Settings
If connectivity continues to be an impediment, resetting your network settings to default could help.
How to Reset Network Settings on PS5
- Go to “Settings” on your PS5.
- Select “Network.”
- Click on “Settings” and navigate to “Reset Network Settings.”
This will clear saved networks and reset configurations, potentially addressing connectivity issues.
Contact PlayStation Support
If all else fails, consulting with PlayStation support may be your best option. They can provide insights specific to your situation and help further diagnose any persistent problems.
Conclusion
Encountering trouble with PS5 SharePlay can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to share gaming moments with friends. However, by understanding the common causes of SharePlay issues and following our troubleshooting guide, you can effectively identify and resolve these problems.
Remember to maintain a stable internet connection, regularly update your system software, and ensure game compatibility. Should you need more extensive support, don’t hesitate to reach out to PlayStation’s customer service.
With a little effort, you can ensure that your SharePlay experiences are enjoyable and trouble-free, allowing you to connect and share outstanding gaming adventures with your friends.
What is PS5 SharePlay and how does it work?
PS5 SharePlay is a feature that allows players to share their gaming experience with friends, even if they don’t own the game themselves. Essentially, it enables one player to become a guest in another player’s game session, either by taking control remotely or by watching gameplay in real-time. This feature creates an immersive social experience, allowing for collaborative gameplay or simply enjoying a friend’s gameplay session together.
To initiate SharePlay, the host needs to start a party with the friend they want to share with, then select the Share Play option. From there, the host can choose to let the guest play as if they were playing on their own console or just watch the gameplay. This function can be particularly useful for cooperative games or for helping someone through a tough section of a game where they might need guidance.
Why is my PS5 SharePlay not connecting with my friend?
If you’re having trouble connecting for SharePlay, it could be due to several factors, including internet connectivity issues or NAT type restrictions. Both players need to have stable internet connections to enjoy the feature smoothly. A poor connection can disrupt the session, leading to failed connection attempts or poor performance during SharePlay.
Additionally, checking the NAT type is essential. If one or both users have a strict NAT type, they may face difficulties in connecting. Setting the NAT type to open can improve connectivity, so it’s advisable to check router settings or consult your internet service provider for assistance in this regard.
What should I do if the SharePlay feature is not showing up on my PS5?
If the SharePlay option is missing from your PS5 menu, it could be due to an outdated system software version. It’s important to keep your console updated to access all available features, including SharePlay. You can check for system software updates in the Settings menu under System Software Update. If an update is available, ensure you install it to restore missing features.
Another reason for SharePlay being unavailable could involve your PlayStation Plus subscription status. SharePlay requires an active PS Plus subscription, and if your subscription has lapsed, the feature will not be accessible. Make sure your subscription is current, and if necessary, renew it to regain access to SharePlay.
Is there a limit to how long I can use SharePlay?
Yes, PlayStation imposes a limit on SharePlay sessions, which is currently set at 60 minutes. Once the session reaches this time limit, it will automatically terminate. However, this does not prevent you from starting a new session immediately afterward if you wish to continue sharing your game.
To manage your gaming sessions effectively, consider planning breaks or intervals if you expect to play for an extended period. This will help you maintain a better gaming experience while accommodating the 60-minute time constraint.
Why is my gameplay lagging during SharePlay?
Lagging during SharePlay can arise from various issues, most commonly related to internet speeds and connection stability. Both players should have a high-speed internet connection for optimal performance. SharePlay requires a substantial bandwidth to stream the game session seamlessly; if either participant is experiencing slow internet speeds, it may result in lag.
Additionally, if you are aware of other devices using the same network during your SharePlay session, they could be consuming bandwidth, thus causing interruptions. To alleviate this, try minimizing network usage on other devices while using SharePlay, or consider connecting your PS5 via a wired connection, which generally offers better stability and performance than wireless connections.
What games are compatible with PS5 SharePlay?
Most PS5 games are compatible with SharePlay, but there are some exceptions, particularly when it comes to titles that are restricted due to licensing agreements or specific game mechanics. While many popular multiplayer and solo experiences support SharePlay, you’ll want to check specific games if you have questions about their compatibility.
It’s also worth noting that some games might have limited functionality while using SharePlay. For instance, if a game requires additional players or features that are not accessible to guests, this can affect gameplay during a session. Always refer to the game’s description or check online forums for guidance on compatibility and any restrictions related to SharePlay.