If you want to learn how to access the web browser on PS5, you are in the right place.
There seems to be a bit of confusion here. The PS4 used to include a fully functional web browser, but it seems the PS5 does not include such a browser. So let’s clarify this:
Does the PS5 Have a Web Browser?
Yes, the PS5 has a hidden web browser you can use to browse the Internet. However, this web browser is not official, nor is it an actual app you can download easily. It’s more of a hack you can try when you need to surf the Internet.
The issue with the secret PS5 browser is you can’t type in URLs since there’s no address bar. So, getting around isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Plus, it doesn’t have things like bookmarks or other usual browser stuff. It’s a basic browser you weren’t really supposed to stumble upon.
If this is too much trouble for you, consider using a web browser on your Smart TV. Check out the Best Web Browsers For Yout TV. And if you own an Apple TV, check how to use Safari on Apple TV.
Why Is There No Standard Browser on the PS5?
There’s no standard browser on the PS5 because Sony wants to focus on the PS5’s gaming aspect. Web browsers are also susceptible to security risks. Sony wants gamers to have an unmatched experience while protecting the device from malware, viruses, and jailbreaks.
The lack of a standard web browser on the PS5 disappointed many gamers who found this feature useful on the PS4. Even though the PS5 doesn’t have a web browser, you can still find ways to surf the web using the console.
How to Use a Web Browser on the PS5
Method 1. Send PS Messages so You Can Use the PS5 Web Browser
Here’s a neat trick: if you want to access a webpage, just send the URL to a friend through PS messages in the Game Base. Then, hop into the chat and click the link they sent. This clever method, discovered by a Reddit user, lets you visit any website, not just the ones shared on Twitter.
You can even “pin” it to the side, making the browser easily accessible from the quick menu, similar to a favorite page. This opens up a world of possibilities, like accessing Discord on PS5.
Method 2. Use Twitter to Access the PS5 Web Browser
If you don’t find it easy to send and receive PS messages, you still can access the PS5 web browser by using Twitter.
The process is a bit more complex though. Here are the steps to follow:
- Step 1. Create a Twitter account.
- Step 2. Link with Twitter.
Go to Settings and then scroll down and click on Users and Accounts > Link with Other Services > Twitter > Link Account
Skip the modal window asking for your Twitter login. Here’s the trick: have you heard of The Permatab web browser? Check it out—you’ll be surprised!
Instead of logging in directly from the modal, click on the Twitter icon at the top left corner. This takes you to the regular Twitter website’s login page. Enter your username and password here to access your Twitter homepage, which will serve as your main source for websites.
- Step 3. Look for the page to visit.
With Twitter access on PS5, you can reach any website linked there. Say you want to visit Coca-Cola’s site. Just head to their Twitter profile and click the website link. It’s not ideal—it’s slow and clunky—but hey, you wanted to explore web navigation on PS5, right?
Can You Install or Download a Browser for the PS5?
No, you can’t install or download a browser for the PS5. The PS5 has no third-party app that will allow you to browse the Internet, therefore you can not install or download any app. If you want to use the PS5 to browse the Internet, you can follow any of the two ways detailed above.
And although you can basically access a web browser on your PS5 with the above hacks, take note that it doesn’t mean it’s a smooth ride. Since web browsers aren’t really a fit for your PS5, it can be laggy so don’t expect too much.
It’s also worth noting that the PS5 web browser trick doesn’t work on all websites. Sony has no plans of adding a browser functionality to the PS5 until they see the need to do so. Until then, we’ll have to stick with the PS5 browser hack.
