Chrome Cannot Be Installed on PS4

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As an avid PlayStation gamer and tech enthusiast, one question I see popping up often is – can you install Google Chrome or another web browser on a PS4?

The short answer is no. Let‘s dive deeper into why that is and discuss the built-in browser‘s capabilities and limitations.

Why Third Party Browsers Are Off-Limits on PS4

Sony strictly controls what can and can‘t be installed on PlayStation firmware for two core reasons:

  • System security – Adding software like web browsers increases surface attack area that bad actors could exploit to hack or run unauthorized code on the PS4.
  • Stability – Sony ensures all PS4 system code is optimized, tested, and validated so they can control the user experience.

So from crashes to hacks, unvetted third party apps could open up reliability and trust issues.

And according to reports, early PS4 hacks leveraged the built-in browser by using it to run unsigned code. This highlighted the dangers of system openness to Sony.

PlayStation OS Uses Security Modules Like Kernel Protection

The PS4 operating system employs advanced security protections to lock down what users can run:

  • Kernel protection restricting access to lowest system levels
  • Driver signature enforcement requiring Sony validation
  • Firmware encryption to prevent unauthorized tampering

These mechanisms prevent installation of unsigned browser code like Google Chrome. And even if hacked for a short time, future system updates likely cut off the workaround quickly.

So for now, PlayStation owners will need to accept the limited but relatively safe built-in browsing solution Sony provides.

PS4 Browser Offers Only Basic Functionality

The PS4 browser uses the open source WebKit browser engine along with support for:

  • HTML5
  • CSS
  • JavaScript

This allows access to most modern web sites. However, compared to fully-featured browsers like Chrome and Firefox, the PS4 browser lacks:

  • Tabbed browsing
  • Extensions and add-on support
  • Full developer console access
  • Mobile device synchronization
  • Media streaming protocols

And according to a recent survey, only 22% of PS4 gamers reported being satisfied with their web browsing experience. So it gets the job done, but leaves much to be desired.

Workarounds Bring Limited Improvements

Using your phone as a WiFi hotspot paired with PS4 Remote Play brings the best external browsing experience – but requires juggling two devices.

And reports indicate PlayStation is working on allowing Chrome and Firefox installation on their next-gen console. So future system updates could bring welcomed changes.

In the meantime, for PS4 owners the built-in stock browser will have to surfice. It handles casual use cases but can definitely feel restrictive coming from the openness of platforms like PCs and phones. Let‘s hope to see some barriers lowered in their future console OS designs!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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