Coronavirus UK: PSN download speeds for PS4 slowed to reduce burden

Sony has issued a statement warning that PlayStation 4 downloads may be ‘somewhat slower or delayed’ in Europe, as companies struggle to cope with increased Internet usage during the coronavirus pandemic.

The text below is from PlayStation boss Jim Ryan and while it insists that online play will remain ‘robust’, download speeds will definitely be slower than you’re used to.

The move is similar to actions taken by Netflix and YouTube to reduce streaming quality during the crisis, so that less bandwidth is used.

With so many people now working from home, and most children no longer at school, the amount of Internet usage is currently many times greater than usual, and these actions are intended to ensure that the Internet doesn’t become unusably slow for everyone.

Here’s that Jim Ryan comment in full…

Playing video games enables players all over the world to connect with friends and family and enjoy much-needed entertainment during these uncertain times. Sony Interactive Entertainment is working with internet service providers in Europe to manage download traffic to help preserve access for the entire Internet community.

We believe it is important to do our part to address Internet stability concerns as an unprecedented number of people are practising social distancing and are becoming more reliant on Internet access.

Players may experience somewhat slower or delayed game downloads but will still enjoy robust gameplay. We appreciate the support and understanding from our community, and their doing their part, as we take these measures in an effort to preserve access for everyone.