How to Access the Hidden Browser on PS5
If you’ve ever poked around your PlayStation 5’s menus, you’ve probably noticed there’s no obvious browser app. Unlike the PS4, the PS5 keeps its internet browser tucked away. It’s there—you just have to know where to look! Whether you want to check websites, stream content, or just explore the hidden features of your PS5, we’ve got you.
TL;DR
The PS5 has a hidden internet browser, but it’s not available as a standalone app like on the PS4. You can access it by linking a Twitter account (or sometimes opening certain links in messages). It’s a workaround, not the smoothest experience, but it works. Just follow a few easy steps and voilà—you’re browsing the web from your console.
Why Is the PS5 Browser Hidden?
The browser still exists as part of the system because some features rely on it, like web-rendered help menus or social sharing functions. Sony probably hid it to keep the experience clean and focused on games. But hey, secrets are fun.
What You’ll Need
- A PlayStation 5
- Stable internet connection
- A Twitter account (or just access to one)
- A dash of curiosity
How to Access the Hidden Browser Using Twitter
This is the most well-known method. Follow along with these simple steps:
- From your PS5 Home Screen, go to Settings.
- Select Users and Accounts.
- Choose Link with Other Services.
- Click on Twitter. (Yes, it still says Twitter even if the logo says X!)
- You’ll be prompted to sign in. Instead of logging in, highlight the link to Twitter’s Privacy Policy at the bottom and select it.
And boom! You’re now in the browser. This opens a web page, and from there you can type in URLs and surf the internet (well, kind of).
How to Browse Other Websites
Once Twitter’s page is open, you can go elsewhere. Here’s how:
- Press the Options button on your controller to bring up the URL entry field.
- Type in the address you want (like www.google.com or www.youtube.com).
- Press R2 to go!
Now you’re browsing the web, right on your PS5—no external devices needed.
Alternative Way: Use Messages
If the Twitter method seems like a hassle, there’s another option… though it’s a bit silly.
- Create a new PlayStation Network (PSN) message thread—send a message to yourself, for example.
- In the message, include a full website URL like https://www.duckduckgo.com.
- Click the link—it will open in the secret PS5 browser.
You can then bookmark that page and continue browsing away. A little hacky? Maybe. But it works.
Limitations of the PS5 Browser
Now let’s keep expectations in check. The PS5 browser isn’t like using Chrome on your PC. Here are a few limitations to be aware of:
- No access through a direct app – You always have to sneak in via a workaround.
- No tabs or bookmarks – You have to re-enter your web address each time unless you open it through a message.
- No file downloads – You can’t save PDFs or install apps from websites.
- Limited keyboard support – Typing with the controller isn’t ideal, though an external keyboard can be used.
What You CAN Do With It
Despite the downsides, the browser can still do quite a few cool things:
- Watch YouTube videos (though the app is better)
- Read guides, walkthroughs, or forums while gaming
- Stream music or podcasts from browser-ready services
- Use web messaging tools like Discord (with quirks)
It can be kind of fun exploring what works and what doesn’t. Some sites run fine, while others might act weird.
Tips for a Better Browsing Experience
If you’re determined to use the browser often, here are a few quick hacks to make life easier:
- Use a Bluetooth keyboard – Makes typing URLs and chat messages way faster.
- Keep a list of URLs in a message chat so you can open them anytime.
- Try mobile versions of websites – They often run smoother on the PS5 browser.
- Experiment – Some streaming or HTML-based games can actually work!
Can You Bookmark Pages?
Not officially. But you can game the system a bit:
- Send links to yourself via PSN messages.
- Pin that chat thread so it’s easy to access again.
- Click the desired link anytime you want to go back to that page. Voila, a bookmark hack!
Sure, it’s not perfect, but it’s a lot better than typing in long URLs over and over again.
Is This Safe to Use?
For the most part, yes. The PS5 browser uses the system’s native network protections. But remember, since it’s not officially supported:
- Don’t log into sensitive accounts if you’re worried about privacy.
- Stick to trusted websites.
- Avoid clicking shady links—you wouldn’t do that on your PC either!
Should Sony Make It Official?
Honestly? We think yes. While many gamers may not need a browser on their console, some definitely enjoy the convenience. Watching a quick guide, reading reviews, or chatting via Discord without switching devices? Super useful.
So here’s hoping Sony gives us a proper browser somewhere down the line. Until then, these little tricks keep us browsing like sneaky hackers with DualSenses.
Final Thoughts
Accessing the hidden PS5 browser is like finding a secret door in a game. It’s not part of the main quest, but boy is it satisfying to unlock. Just because Sony didn’t give us a browser app doesn’t mean we can’t poke around and explore.
So go ahead—sign into Twitter (or don’t!) and browse the weird wild web on your console. You might just impress your friends next time they come over.
Now that you know the secrets, go unlock that digital treasure chest!