The Ultimate Guide to PlayStation Vue


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Couple on sofa with TV remote

The Basics

PlayStation Vue is a live TV streaming service from Sony, available in the United States. Users can use the monthly subscription to stream live TV, record shows and movies to watch later, and access on demand content. The good news is you don’t need to own a PlayStation to use the PlayStation Vue streaming service.

An easy to use guide allows you to scroll through current listings to choose what you want to watch. You’ll also have the option to use a Catch Up feature, giving you access to shows and movies that aired up to three days earlier, through the guide. (Note that the Catch Up option isn’t available for all channels or all programming.) Many shows are also included in an on demand option.

The PlayStation Vue interface is very user friendly. Those who are not using a Roku or Apple TV can use the Explore option to search for programming based on genre, length of the content, age range, and what’s popular among viewers.

With a PlayStation Vue account, you can stream content on up to five devices simultaneously. Only one PS3 and two PS4 devices can be streaming simultaneously, and only three mobile devices can be streaming simultaneously.

Like most subscription services, the streaming content includes advertisements, set up as regular commercial breaks.

Key Features

With so many streaming options available, what sets PlayStation Vue apart?

Like other services, PlayStation Vue allows multiple user accounts. Unlike others, with this service, you can create up to ten separate profiles. Each profile can then be customized to individual preferences, including favorite channels, recommendations, and DVR controls.

The My Shows feature makes it easy to ensure that you’ll never miss an episode of your favorite shows. Add your favorites to the list in your profile and all episodes that air will be saved for up to 28 days.

The amount of local content being streamed is another big draw for many users. In an effort to be set apart from other services by offering local channels in as many areas as possible, Sony is scooping up more local affiliates everyday.

Supported Devices

 PlayStation Vue doesn’t require a PlayStation for viewing. The service works with the following devices:

Pick a Package

 Playstation Vue has four packages available. Each has a five day free trial period, followed by a monthly fee with no annual contract. Choose from these four options:

Access

  • $39.99/month
  • Popular live TV channels, including ABC, Bravo, TBS, TLC, and ESPN
  • Best for those who want the basics

Core

  • $44.99/month
  • Popular live TV channels
  • Additional sports content, including NFL Network, MLB Network, and regional sports
  • Best for those who love sports

Elite

  • $54.99/month
  • Popular live TV channels
  • Additional sports content
  • Additional TV and movie channels, including Disney Junior, Boomerang, and Sprout
  • Best for families with kids

Ultra

  • $74.99/month
  • Popular live TV channels
  • Additional sports content
  • Additional movie channels
  • Premium channels, including HBO and Showtime
  • Best for those who want premium content and recent movies

With each package, you’ll also have the option to add standalone channels and bundles, for an additional monthly fee. Standalone channels include HBO, Showtime, HBO Max, Showtime and EPIX Hits, Fox Soccer Plus, Machinima, and Hi-Yah! Bundles include  EPIX Hits, Espanol Pack, and a Sports Pack.

Recent Updates and Drawbacks

In an effort to compete with other big names in content streaming, PlayStation Vue has been focusing recent updates on adding more content. The addition of new standalone and bundle packs have made it easier for users to personalize their accounts with content they want. Adding local stations has been a priority for the service, bringing more content to specific regions.

Sony has recently updated its location technology, making location specific programming more accurate. The change was most likely in an effort to get local channels in order while the service is working to quickly add more local content.

While there are plenty of benefits to choosing the PlayStation Due service, there are still some areas that could be improved. The most obvious is that not all features are available on all devices. For example, those using an Apple TV don’t have access to the Explore feature for searching content. Those using a Roku also don’t have access to the Explore feature, and can’t use the guide to search either. While most features are available when watching on a TV, mobile devices won’t support all of the Vue features.

Local content isn’t available everywhere yet, so some content will be blacked out for some users. Local content is a major selling point for the service, so that could be a deal breaker for some users. A free trial will quickly show you what content you’ll receive and where the gaps might be for your area.

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