PlayStation Discloses PS5 Usage: Off vs. Rest Mode

Summary

• 50% of PS5 users prefer to shut down their console rather than use rest mode.
• The Welcome Hub was developed to provide a unified experience despite varied user preferences.
• The reasons for not using rest mode are diverse among players.

In a revealing interview with Stephen Totilo, Cory Gasaway, Vice President of Game, Product, and Player Experiences at Sony Interactive Entertainment, disclosed that half of PlayStation 5 users opt out of using the console's rest mode feature. Rest mode, a significant innovation in modern console design, allows gamers to keep their systems running for downloads and mid-game saves while conserving energy. The PS5's rest mode is particularly useful for managing downloads and ensuring games remain active during important moments.

Rest mode has long been a cornerstone of the PlayStation ecosystem. Jim Ryan, prior to the PS5's launch, emphasized the company's commitment to environmental sustainability, highlighting how rest mode contributes to reduced power consumption compared to previous models. Despite these benefits, a significant portion of the PS5 community chooses not to engage with this feature.

As reported by IGN, Gasaway shared these insights with Game File, illustrating the even split among PS5 users between those who shut down their console and those who use rest mode. This revelation came as part of a broader discussion by Stephen Totilo on the design philosophy behind the PS5's Welcome Hub, introduced in 2024.

50% of PS5 Players Don't Use Rest Mode

The Welcome Hub emerged from a PlayStation hackathon, driven by the recognition that half of PS5 users do not utilize rest mode. Gasaway noted that in the United States, 50% of users would encounter the PS5 Explore page upon startup, while those outside the US would see the page of their most recently played game. This hub aims to offer a more cohesive and personalized starting point for all PS5 users, enhancing their overall experience.

The reasons for opting out of rest mode vary among gamers. While it is designed to save energy and facilitate downloads and updates, some users report issues with internet connectivity when using rest mode, leading them to keep their console fully powered on during downloads. Others find no issues and continue to use the feature. Gasaway's insights provide valuable context into the considerations behind the PS5's user interface design, reflecting the diverse needs and preferences of its user base.

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