At this point, you’ve likely made up your mind about whether to take the next-gen plunge or wait it out. The PlayStation 4 launches on November 15, and with it comes a slew of new games, tech, and potential. If you’ve already decided to pick up Sony’s new console, you can use this list as a guide while you wait. Take a look at what games support digital upgrades, learn about its Vita support, and see what’s changing on the PlayStation Network. If you’re ready to get in on the fun, you can read this while you’re waiting in line at midnight – the PS4 preorder ship has long since sailed for most of us. Either way, here’s everything you need to know about the PlayStation 4.
The Console
The PlayStation 4 is a sleek-looking machine, built from matte and glossy black plastic (“Jet black,” according to Sony). It measures about 10.83” wide by 2.01” high and 12.01” long, weighing in at a little over 6 pounds. As with previous PlayStation consoles, the power supply is built into the case – you don’t have to worry about snaking a bulky power brick behind your desk or entertainment center.
Tech Specs
Here’s what’s under the PlayStation 4’s hood:

  • CPU: single-chip custom processor, x86-64 AMD "Jaguar," 8 cores
  • GPU: 1.84 TFLOPS, AMD next-generation Radeon-based graphics engine
  • Memory: 8GB GDDR5
  • 500GB 5400 RPM SATA II hard drive
  • 6X Blu-Ray Drive, 8X DVD
  • Two USB 3 ports and an auxiliary port for the PlayStation 4 camera
  • Gigabit Ethernet port, 802.11 B/G/N built-in WiFi, and Bluetooth 2.1
  • HDMI, Analog-AV, and digital optical outputs

What’s in the Box?
Here’s what you get for $399.99:

  • A PlayStation 4 console
  • A DualShock 4 wireless controller
  • A micro-USB charging cable for the controller
  • A mono headset
  • A 60” power cable
  • A 79” HDMI cable


The Controller
The DualShock controller has steadily evolved since Sony debuted it in 1997, but the DualShock 4 includes some of the most noticeable revisions yet. They include the addition of a capacitive touchpad, redesigned analog sticks with a concave surface and raised ring, “share” and “options” buttons instead of “select” and “start”, more rounded edges overall, redesigned triggers, a light bar LED array, vibration, three-axis accelerometer, three-axis gyroscope, headphone jack, and a mini-B USB 2.0/3.0 input. The DualShock 4 doesn’t have the pressure-sensitive face buttons that previous DualShock controllers have supported. It can, however, be charged while the system is turned off after adjusting an option in the PS4’s energy settings. Read Matt Helgeson’s hands-on impressions about the controller for more information on the DualShock 4 and how it stacks up to other Sony controllers.
The Touchpad
The DualShock 4’s touchpad is a capacitive sensor with an input resolution of 1,920x900 pixels per inch. It supports drag and drop, swiping, and multitouch input. It’s also clickable like a button.
Accessories
The PlayStation Camera
The PlayStation Camera is an optional accessory that will be available at launch for $59.99. It features stereoscopic cameras that allow the device to interpret depth, and four microphones. The PS4 ships with Playroom software, which is a series of augmented reality-based minigames and other diversions. The PlayStation 4 can interpret voice commands, either via the PlayStation Camera’s mics or a headset.
Other Accessories
Sony has stated that PlayStation 3 accessories, including the Blu-Ray remote, controllers, steering wheels, fight sticks, and Bluetooth headsets will not be compatible with the PlayStation 4. Bluetooth headsets designed specifically for the PlayStation 4 will be coming , and we expect that third-party manufacturers will fill shelves with products very similar to what you can find for the PlayStation 3.

Read on for a look at the PS4's launch lineup




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