Backward compatibility is always something to consider with the announcement of a new console, with Sony's PlayStation 5 including instructions on how to transfer data from the PS4 on the physical packaging itself. Even with several troubleshooting guides and FAQ-type resources available digitally to owners of both consoles, the extra inclusion of transfer instructions on the PS5's box serve to further re-assure PS4 owners looking to upgrade that they can take their old data with them.
As the PS5 nears its North American release date, strides made by Sony continue to affirm that the new platform is an upgrade over the current console generation's hardware. Several quality of life adjustments to the system, such as PlayStation Network account consolidation, are also working to win over potential customers who may have previously been on the fence with buying a new console.
Why owners of the PS4 would care to have their themes, apps, games, their saves, friends lists, and other sizable amounts of data transferred can be explained in the PS4 having been around for nearly seven years, first launching in November of 2013, and naturally accumulating seven years' worth of various content and exclusives to download. Fortunately, with the latest PS4 system updates installed, there are a few different methods to transfer this data to the PS5 that take into account availability of hardware and wi-fi speeds.
The first suggested method to transfer data from the PS4 to the PS5 is to connect both systems to the same network. This can be achieved wirelessly via wi-fi or with a physical LAN connection. Alternatively, should access to an internet connection not be available, data can be transferred with the use of a physical hard-drive by moving the data over manually between consoles. Lastly, and arguably the most convenient method, owners of the new PS5 can sign into their PlayStation Network account on the new system, prompting the digital transfer of data from the PS4 to the PS5.
Initially, there was confusion regarding which PS4 games would be supported with backward compatibility on the new console, especially among fans of limited-time horror phenomenon P.T. Unfortunately, the support exists mainly for cross-generational titles releasing on both PS4 and PS5, meaning owners of P.T. will want to think twice before trading in their old console.
Aside from first-party software, various Sony approved third-party software such as mobile companion app PlayLink will continue to work on the PS5.
The PlayStation 5 launches on November 12, 2020.