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PS4 Second Screen: Easy Remote Play Guide

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PS4 Second Screen: Easy Remote Play Guide

Yes, you can use your PS4 on a second screen like a phone, tablet, or PC with the official Remote Play feature or the PS4 Second Screen app. This guide explains how to set up both, what each one does, and how to get the best performance for your setup.

What Is PS4 Second Screen?

“Second Screen� is a broad term that covers two different ways to use another device with your PS4:

  • Remote Play: Streams the actual PS4 game video and audio to your phone, tablet, or computer. You can play the game from that screen, with on-screen controls or a connected controller.
  • Second Screen App: A companion app for smartphones and tablets that shows maps, extra info, or lets you type text and browse the web on your PS4. It does not stream the game video.

Both are free, official Sony features. The one you want depends on whether you want to play the game remotely or just use your device as an extra input/display panel.

How Remote Play Works

Remote Play encodes the PS4’s video output and sends it over your local network (or the internet) to the second device. The device decodes it and sends your button presses back to the console. It needs a stable connection with low latency, so a wired PS4 connection and a 5GHz Wi-Fi network for the second device work best.

To use it you need:

  • A PS4 (any model) with the latest system software.
  • A compatible device: Android 7.0+, iOS 13+, Windows 10, or macOS Catalina or later.
  • A PlayStation Network account (the same one used on the PS4).
  • The Remote Play app installed on the second device.

On the PS4, go to Settings > Remote Play Connection Settings and enable “Enable Remote Play.� Also set the console to stay in Rest Mode so you can wake it remotely (Settings > Power Saving Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode > Enable Turning On PS4 from Network).

How to Set Up Remote Play on a Phone or Tablet

  1. Install the official “PS Remote Play� app from the App Store or Google Play.
  2. Connect a DualShock 4 controller via Bluetooth if you want physical buttons (or use the on-screen touch controls).
  3. Open the app and sign in with your PSN account.
  4. The app will search for your PS4 on the same network. If it doesn’t find it, you can manually enter the code shown on the PS4 under Settings > Remote Play Connection Settings > Add Device.
  5. Once connected, the PS4 screen appears on your device. Tap the screen for the control overlay.

For best results, keep the PS4 connected via Ethernet cable and the second device on the same 5GHz Wi-Fi band. Avoid using Remote Play over the internet unless you have a fast upload speed (at least 5 Mbps) and a strong connection.

What the PS4 Second Screen App Does

The separate “PS4 Second Screen� app (available for Android and iOS) does not stream the game. Instead it:

  • Displays game-specific info like maps or mission objectives when the game supports it (e.g., Infamous Second Son, Fallout 4).
  • Lets you type text messages and web addresses on your phone instead of using the on-screen keyboard.
  • Acts as a remote control for the PS4’s media apps (like Netflix or YouTube).

To use it, install the app, connect to the same Wi-Fi network, and launch it. It will find your PS4 automatically. Then, in a game that supports second screen, you’ll see the companion content appear on your phone.

Common Problems and Fixes

If Remote Play won’t connect or keeps dropping, try these in order:

  1. Check that the PS4 is on or in Rest Mode and that Remote Play is enabled in settings.
  2. Make sure both devices are on the same network (for local play).
  3. Restart the Remote Play app and the PS4.
  4. Use a wired connection for the PS4 if possible.
  5. On the second device, forget the Wi-Fi network and reconnect, or switch to 5GHz.
  6. If using a phone, disable any VPN or battery saver that might block the connection.

If the video is blurry or laggy, lower the resolution in the Remote Play app settings (e.g., from 1080p to 720p). The app also lets you choose between “Resolution� and “Frame Rate� priority—choose what matters more for your game.

PS4 Remote Play vs. PS5 and PC Options

The PS5 has its own Remote Play feature, which works similarly but with higher resolution and frame rate options. The PS4’s Remote Play is still supported and works fine for most games, but it’s limited to 1080p output. If you have a PS5, you can use Remote Play to play PS5 games on your phone or PC, and you can also stream PS4 games through the PS5’s Remote Play.

On PC, you can also use unofficial tools like Chiaki (for PS4/PS5) or the official Remote Play app. Chiaki is open-source and can offer lower latency in some setups, but it requires more technical configuration. For most users, the official app is simpler and more reliable.

Safety and Privacy Considerations

Remote Play uses your home network or the internet. When playing over the internet, your video stream is encrypted, but it’s still wise to use a strong Wi-Fi password and not share your PSN login. Also, be aware that Remote Play can drain your phone battery quickly—keep it plugged in for long sessions. If you’re using a public network, avoid Remote Play as it may be slow or insecure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Remote Play away from home?

Yes, but you’ll need a solid internet connection on both ends. Your PS4 must be in Rest Mode (or on) and connected to the internet. The upload speed of your home connection matters more than download. Sony recommends at least 5 Mbps upload for a decent experience, but you may get lag or lower quality on slower connections.

Does Remote Play work with any game?

Most games work, but some titles disable Remote Play or have restrictions (like certain VR games or games that require a camera). Also, games that require the controller’s touchpad or motion controls may be harder to play on a phone without a DualShock 4.

Can I use my phone as a second screen while playing on the TV?

Yes, that’s exactly what the PS4 Second Screen app does. It shows companion content (like maps) while you play on the TV. It does not mirror the game screen.

Do I need a PlayStation Plus subscription for Remote Play?

No. Remote Play is free and does not require PlayStation Plus. You only need a PlayStation Network account.

Why is my Remote Play laggy even on the same network?

Common causes: the PS4 is on Wi-Fi (use Ethernet), the second device is on a crowded 2.4GHz band (switch to 5GHz), or there’s interference from walls or other electronics. Also, close any background apps on your phone that use the network.

Can I use a keyboard and mouse with Remote Play on PC?

Yes, the official Remote Play app on PC supports keyboard and mouse input for games that support them. On mobile, you’re limited to the touch controls or a DualShock 4.

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