Sony launched the PlayStation 4 back in 2013, and it quickly became one of the best-selling consoles of all time. More than a decade later, many still use it daily, but the question of how long support will last has become more pressing as the PlayStation 5 takes center stage. Sony is expected to phase out major PS4 support by 2026, with new game production slowing and official backing winding down.
That doesn’t mean the console will stop working. Online services like PlayStation Network often continue for years after new games end, just as they did with past consoles. Many owners can still expect access to multiplayer and digital libraries for some time, even as new releases shift fully to the PS5.
This transition marks the natural end of a long cycle, but it also gives players a chance to plan ahead. Knowing when support ends helps decide whether to hold onto the PS4 or move on to newer hardware.
How Long Will Sony Support the PS4
Current Status of PS4 Support
As of 2025, Sony continues to provide support for the PlayStation 4, but the end is approaching. The PS4, launched in 2013, has enjoyed over a decade of strong support, which aligns with Sony’s typical console lifecycle pattern.
Key Timeline & Milestones
2013: PlayStation 4 launches 2020: PlayStation 5 releases, beginning the transition period 2025: Sony confirms ongoing PS4 support but signals phase-out is imminent 2026: PS4 support expected to come to an end according to recent reports
Sony’s Support Framework
Console Generation Transitions
Sony typically follows a structured approach to console transitions. During their 2022 Corporate Strategy Meeting, they outlined a “3-4 year transition period between console generations where both are still supported”. Given the PS5’s 2020 launch, this places the end of PS4 support around 2024-2025, which aligns with current reports.
Historical Context
Historically, PlayStation consoles enjoy around a 10-year run, and the PS4 fits this established pattern perfectly, having launched in 2013.
What “End of Support” Means
Different Levels of Support
Sony’s support includes several components that may end at different times:
- Hardware Production: Already discontinued for most PS4 models
- System Software Updates: Security patches and system stability updates
- PlayStation Store: Game purchases and downloads
- PlayStation Network Services: Online multiplayer and cloud features
- First-Party Game Development: New exclusive titles
Online Services Timeline
PlayStation Network (PSN) and online multiplayer present a different timeline than general console support. These services often continue beyond official hardware support, though Sony hasn’t specified exact dates.
Third-Party Developer Impact
The longevity of PS4 support doesn’t depend solely on Sony. Third-party publishers and developers play a crucial role in determining how long the console remains viable through continued game releases and updates.
What to Expect in 2025-2026
Immediate Future (2025)
- Continued PlayStation Network access
- Security updates for system software
- Third-party game releases (though declining)
- Full backwards compatibility library access
Phase-Out Period (2026 and Beyond)
- Reports suggest PS4 support will begin ending in 2026
- Gradual reduction in system updates
- Potential PlayStation Store limitations
- Decreased third-party developer support
Preparing for the Transition
For Current PS4 Owners
- Backup Save Data: Ensure your game saves are backed up to PlayStation Plus cloud storage or USB
- Digital Library: Your purchased digital games should remain accessible even after support ends
- Consider Upgrading: The PS5 offers full backwards compatibility with PS4 games
- Physical Media: Physical PS4 games will continue working regardless of online support status
Looking Ahead: PS6 Considerations
With the PS6 potentially on the horizon, Sony is likely accelerating the PS4 phase-out timeline to focus resources on current and next-generation platforms.
Conclusion
While the PS4 still has some life left, Sony appears to be preparing for a 2025-2026 end-of-support timeline. The console has had an impressive 12+ year run, but the transition to newer hardware is inevitable. PS4 owners should begin planning for this transition while enjoying the remaining period of full support.
The exact end date remains unconfirmed by Sony, but all indicators point to support winding down within the next 1-2 years, marking the end of one of PlayStation’s most successful console generations.
Key Takeaways
- Sony plans to wind down PS4 support sometime in 2026
- Online services may continue for a period after new games stop
- Planning ahead can help decide when to upgrade to newer hardware
Frequently Asked Questions
Sony has confirmed that PS4 support will continue into 2025, with online services and system updates still active. The shift toward PS5 means new development will slow, but players can expect access to their games, network features, and multiplayer for several more years.
What is the expected timeline for PlayStation 4 online services to remain active?
Sony has not given an exact end date for PS4 online services. Based on past consoles like the PS3, PlayStation Network access often continues for years after new hardware takes over.
Until what year is Sony committed to providing support for the PS4 platform?
Sony plans to support the PS4 through 2025. This includes software updates, digital store access, and continued network functionality.
Are there any official statements regarding the discontinuation of PS4 support?
Sony has not announced a final shutdown date for the PS4. The company has only confirmed that support will wind down gradually as resources shift to the PS5.
How does the release of the PS5 impact the longevity of PS4 support?
The PS5 has become Sony’s main focus, but the PS4 still benefits from its large player base. Cross-generation releases and backward compatibility extend the PS4’s relevance even as new games target PS5 hardware.
What will happen to PS4 online multiplayer services in the future?
Multiplayer services will stay active as long as Sony maintains PlayStation Network access and publishers keep servers online. Popular games are likely to retain support longer due to active communities.
Has Sony provided a roadmap for the transition from PS4 to PS5 support?
Sony has outlined a gradual transition. By 2025, first-party PS4 games will end, and PlayStation Plus monthly titles will stop including PS4 versions by early 2026. The PS5 will then take full priority for new releases.
