PlayStation 5 to Get Variable Refresh Rate Support “In the Months Ahead”

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Image: Sony

Sony had promised that the PlayStation 5 would include support for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) even before the console launched, but over a year after the system’s release, it remains a disappointing no-show. What’s taking so long, and when are PS5 owners finally going to enjoy the HDMI 2.1 feature that enables smoother, lag-free gaming? The former is still anyone’s guess, but Sony’s Hideaki Nishino has thankfully confirmed that VRR is still slated to arrive on the PS5 “in the months ahead” in a new blog post today regarding the latest system software update for PS4 and PS5. Microsoft’s Xbox Series X and S consoles already include support for VRR.

Image: Sony

PS5 and PS4 System Software Updates release globally today (PlayStation.Blog)

On the horizon: Variable Refresh Rate support for PS5

We’re also pleased to share that Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is planned to release on PS5 in the coming months. On HDMI 2.1-compatible TVs and PC monitors, VRR dynamically syncs the refresh rate of the display to the PS5 console’s graphical output. This enhances visual performance for PS5 games by minimizing or eliminating visual artifacts, such as frame pacing issues and screen tearing. Gameplay in many PS5 titles feels smoother as scenes render instantly, graphics look crisper, and input lag is reduced. Previously released PS5 games can be fully optimized for VRR through a game patch and future games may include VRR support at launch.

As an added option, you can also choose to apply VRR to PS5 games that don’t support it. This feature may improve video quality for some games. If this results in any unexpected visual effects, you can turn off this option at any time. Both VRR and this secondary option can be turned on or off.

Please note that results may vary depending on the TV you’re using and game you’re playing. As we get closer to the feature’s release, we’ll share more details, including some of the games that will enable VRR support through a game patch.

Our teams will continue to work hard on ways to enhance your gaming and social experiences on PlayStation, so stay tuned for more updates!

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Tsing Mui
News poster at The FPS Review.

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