Yes, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) does allow downloads to continue in rest mode, ensuring your games and system updates are ready when you want to play. This feature is a core component of the PS5's convenience and efficiency.
How PS5 Rest Mode Downloads Work
When your PS5 is in rest mode, it doesn't completely power down but enters a low-power state, capable of performing background tasks. Crucially, only the download is automatic in rest mode. This means your console will pull down game updates, patches, and system software updates without you needing to actively monitor them.
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Automatic Downloads: The PS5 is designed to automatically download available game updates and system software updates while in rest mode. This keeps your games current and your console running on the latest firmware.
- Manual Installation Choice: Unlike the download process, the installation of game updates is not always automatic in rest mode. When you resume your game, you will typically have the option to choose whether or not to install the downloaded update.
- Automatic Installation on Launch: If you choose not to install an update manually after resuming from rest mode, or if you simply launch a game or application, it will automatically update to the newest version available before you can play it. This ensures you always have the most current and stable version of your software.
Benefits of Downloading in Rest Mode
Utilizing the PS5's rest mode for downloads offers several practical advantages:
- Time-Saving: Updates are downloaded in the background, meaning you spend less time waiting for games to update when you want to play them.
- Always Ready Games: Your game library stays up-to-date, minimizing interruptions and allowing for a seamless gaming experience.
- Energy Efficiency: Rest mode consumes significantly less power than keeping the console fully on, making it an energy-efficient way to manage downloads.
- Convenience: You don't need to leave your console fully powered on or actively manage downloads; simply put it into rest mode and let it handle the rest.
Key Considerations: Downloads vs. Installations
It's important to differentiate between downloading and installing on the PS5 while in rest mode.
| Feature | PS5 Rest Mode Behavior | When It Occurs |
|---|---|---|
| Downloads | Automatic and background | While the console is in rest mode. |
| Installations | Optional upon resuming, or automatic upon launching an app/game | When you bring the console out of rest mode or launch a title. |
To ensure that your PS5 can download in rest mode, verify your console's power saving settings. Navigate to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode and ensure options like "Stay Connected to the Internet" are enabled.
By leveraging rest mode, PS5 owners can enjoy a more fluid and uninterrupted gaming experience, always having their digital content ready at a moment's notice.
