Sony has slowly been adding more features to the PlayStation 5, and one of the most useful additions is the PS5 Voice Commands. With this feature, you can talk to your PS5 instead of always reaching for the controller. From opening games to capturing gameplay, it makes your console easier and quicker to use.
Let’s break down what PS5 voice commands are, how to set them up, and the different ways you can use them.
What Are PS5 Voice Commands?
PS5 Voice Command lets you control your console with simple spoken instructions. By saying “Hey PlayStation”, you can search for games, launch apps, play or pause media, or even capture gameplay clips.
Currently, this feature is available only in English and limited to players with PlayStation Network accounts in the U.S. and U.K. Since it’s in preview, Sony may change or expand it later.
How to Turn On PS5 Voice Commands
Before you start talking to your console, you’ll need to enable the feature:
- Go to your Home Screen.
- Open Settings > Voice Command (Preview).
- Turn on Enable Voice Command.
- The option to listen for “Hey PlayStation!” will switch on automatically.
You can also activate it using the Control Center (press the PS button on your controller) or with the PS5 Media Remote (sold separately).
Devices That Work with PS5 Voice Commands
You don’t need extra gadgets to use this feature. The following devices are supported:
- The built-in mic on the DualSense wireless controller
- A connected mic with DUALSHOCK 4
- The PULSE 3D wireless headset
- The official PS5 Media Remote
If your headset has noise cancellation, and the PS5 has trouble understanding you, try switching to the controller mic.
How To Use PS5 Voice Commands
1. Use Voice Commands To Open Games or Apps
- Once enabled, you can use your voice for a wide range of functions. You can say “Open Spider-Man 2” to launch a game or “Go to Netflix” to start the app.
- If there are multiple results, the PS5 will show you a list, and you can choose the correct option by saying the number that appears next to it.
2. Searching is Simplified
- Searching is also simple. Saying “Find Call of Duty” or “Search FIFA” will bring up results from both your library and the PlayStation Store.
- Voice commands are also very useful for controlling media. While watching a movie or listening to music, you can pause, resume, rewind, or fast forward without touching the controller.
3. Record Screen Using PS5 Voice Commands
- Another highlight is the ability to capture gameplay moments with your voice. Saying “Capture that” will instantly save your most recent gameplay, while “Capture the last five minutes” records the previous segment.
- You can also start and stop a manual recording whenever you want. If you forget the available commands, saying “Hey PlayStation, Help” will bring up the full list on your screen.
4. Customise Your PS5 Voice Commands
- The Voice Command settings menu allows you to make adjustments to fit your preference. You can change the speed and volume of the responses, or extend the response timeout if you need more time to speak your command.
- Voice data is only recorded after you say “Hey PlayStation” or manually activate the feature from the control center. If there is no activity for four seconds, the system stops listening.
You can manage how your voice data is collected and used by going to the Privacy section in your account settings. Child accounts cannot use the feature or share voice data.
Although PS5 Voice Commands do not replace the controller entirely, it adds an extra layer of accessibility that many players will appreciate. As Sony continues to improve the feature, it is likely we will see more regions, languages, and functions added in the future.
