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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The PlayStation App is Sony’s free mobile companion app; PlayStation Network (PSN) is the online service ecosystem that connects players and provides access to PlayStation features. The app lets you use selected account-connected functions on a phone—it is not another name for PSN.
How are the PlayStation App and PSN different?
| Aspect | PlayStation App | PlayStation Network (PSN) |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A mobile application from Sony | An online service ecosystem |
| Where you use it | On a compatible iOS or Android device | Through PlayStation-connected devices and online services |
| Main role | A phone interface for selected social, Store, capture, and console functions | Connects players and provides access to PlayStation services |
| What it depends on | Installation, PlayStation account sign-in, and internet for connected functions; a paired console for remote console features | Internet access and a PlayStation account; individual services may have additional requirements or charges |
Sony describes the app as a way to connect to your PlayStation experience from a mobile device, while its regional terms describe PSN as an online service. The app uses selected features in that wider ecosystem; the two are not interchangeable. Sony’s PlayStation App support guide and Australia and New Zealand PSN terms explain their respective roles.
What can you do with the PlayStation App?
The app brings selected account and console functions to your phone. Sony’s support documentation covers messaging, purchases, downloads, captures, game launching, and more; what works depends on your device, settings, and whether a console is paired.
- Chat and connect: Send text messages, stickers, voice recordings, and images, or start party voice chats.
- Shop and download: Browse PlayStation Store, purchase a game, and start downloading it to a paired console. For a remote download, the console needs an internet connection, “Stay Connected to the Internet” enabled, and Rest Mode.
- Manage PS5 storage: Check and delete content remotely when the console is in Rest Mode. Moving or copying games is not supported from the app.
- View captures: Eligible PS5 screenshots and video clips can appear in the app after you enable the feature or capture auto-upload. Sony says uploaded captures remain viewable for 14 days from upload; video clips must be no longer than three minutes, and other restrictions apply. See Sony’s PlayStation App feature details.
- Launch or join games: Use app notifications to launch or join supported console games when the console is configured for remote connection.
These functions are not all phone-only features: remote downloads, storage management, and game launching depend on a connected console and its setup. The PlayStation App is available as a free download, but that does not mean every service or piece of content accessed through it is free.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
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- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Do you need PSN to use the PlayStation App?
You need a PlayStation account to sign in to the app. Sony also says an account is needed to use PSN. Account creation has no charge under Sony’s Australia and New Zealand terms, but some services or content may cost extra; fees and availability can vary by region. Sony’s account information describes the account as the identity used to access Store, Plus, online features, and other services on supported devices.
A PlayStation account, PSN, PlayStation Store, and PlayStation Plus are related but distinct terms. The account is your sign-in identity; PSN is the online ecosystem; Store is its digital storefront; and Plus is a separately named subscription offering. Check Sony’s local pages for current Plus features, prices, and service terms rather than assuming a paid subscription is required for every app feature.
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- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Why can’t you sign in to the PlayStation App?
A sign-in problem does not by itself show that PSN is down. Start by checking Sony’s network-status page, then work through account, app, and connection checks. The status page can reveal an active service issue, but it will not identify every local or account-specific problem.
- Check service status: Visit PlayStation Network Service Status to see whether Sony reports a current online-service problem.
- Verify account access: Confirm you are using the PlayStation account credentials associated with the account you intend to use, and check whether the account itself can be accessed.
- Check the app and internet: Make sure the device has an internet connection and that the installed app is current. If the status page shows no service problem, a local app or connectivity issue remains possible.
- Check console setup for remote features: If sign-in works but downloads, storage controls, or game launching do not, confirm the console is paired and configured for the relevant remote function. Remote downloads require Rest Mode and “Stay Connected to the Internet”; PS5 remote storage management also requires Rest Mode.
Account access problems, device connectivity, and local app errors can look similar. The right next step depends on the symptom; the status page is a first check, not a complete diagnosis.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Where do PlayStation Store and PlayStation Plus fit?
Store and Plus are services in the PlayStation ecosystem, not alternate names for the app or PSN. You can use the app to shop in PlayStation Store, while Plus is a separate subscription offering. Whether a particular feature, game, or service requires payment depends on that offering and your region.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
