PlayStation 5 was launched two years ago but there is still no sign of the advertised support for 8K video output via HDMI 2.1.

If you own a PS5 console, take a look at the box. There is a yellow 8K logo next to the 4K120 and HDR logos. Only problem is that PS5 still lacks support for 8K video output.


 The PlayStation 5 box advertises 8K support. Photo: FlatpanelsHD

Just like VRR which arrived 17 months after the launch of PS5 in November 2020, Sony had planned to add 8K support via a system update.

Sony has not commented publicly on its plans for an 8K update. FlatpanelsHD reached out to PlayStation's PR representatives for comment, but did not receive a response.

PlayStation 5 does support internal 8K rendering and The Touryst became the first game to claim 8K rendering at 60fps. PlayStation 5 downscales to 4K60 for output.

Sony has sold 8K TVs since 2019 and Samsung since 2018. LG and TCL are also offering 8K TVs but market research firms such as Omdia have repeatedly slashed sales forecasts.

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None of the major subscription streaming services such as Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max and Netflix offer content in 8K at this time. YouTube has offered 8K streaming since 2015.

Despite the lack of consumer enthusiasm for 8K TVs, it is disappointing that an advertised feature remains unavailable two years after the launch of PS5.