Sony changes the handheld’s default charging behavior to protect battery health
Summary
– PS Portal update 7.1.7 introduces an 80 percent default charging limit
– Owners can change the charging limit through the system settings
– Updated PlayStation Link software is required for compatible audio devices
Sony Interactive Entertainment has released the PlayStation Portal system software update 7.1.7, which introduces a major change to the device’s charging behavior.
Following the update, PlayStation Portal will stop charging at 80 percent by default. Sony says the new limit is designed to help preserve the battery’s long-term health and overall performance.
Owners who want to charge the device beyond 80 percent can change the limit by opening Settings, selecting System, and entering the Battery menu. Sony warns that regularly selecting a higher limit could reduce the battery’s long-term lifespan.
The update does not indicate that a PlayStation Portal has a faulty battery when charging stops at 80 percent. The new behavior is intentional and becomes the default after version 7.1.7 is installed.
Sony also confirmed that PlayStation Link-compatible accessories must use the latest device software before connecting to PlayStation Portal. The accessories can be updated through a PS5 or Windows PC using a PlayStation Link USB adapter.
The charging change is important because owners may initially believe their Portal has stopped working correctly. Sony has made the feature adjustable, allowing players to choose between maximum daily battery capacity and longer-term battery protection.
