How to set up auto-downloads and updates on PlayStation
Find out how to set up automatic downloads and updates for games and system software on PS5™ consoles and PS4™ consoles.
What are auto-downloads and updates?
- Game updates (patches) and system software updates are automatically downloaded and installed.
- Games purchased from PlayStation™Store can be downloaded remotely.
To allow auto-downloads and updates, set your console to stay connected to the Internet when in rest mode and install update files automatically. Enable automatic downloads and make sure to leave your console in rest mode when not in use.
How to set up auto-downloads and updates on PS5 consoles
Select a setting for steps.
PS5 console: Stay Connected to the Internet
- Go to Settings > System.
- Select Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode.
- Turn on Stay Connected to the Internet.
Selecting Enable Turning On PS5 from Network from this menu allows you to use PlayStation App or Remote Play to turn on your PS5 console while it's in rest mode.
PS5 console: Download and Install Update Files Automatically
- Select Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings.
- Turn on Download Update Files Automatically and Install Update Files Automatically.
Turning on Install Update Files Automatically lets your console install system software updates automatically while in rest mode, so your console is up to date and ready to go the next time you play.
PS5 console: Automatic Updates for games
- Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Automatic Updates.
- Turn on Auto-Download or
Auto-Install in Rest Mode.
When you turn on Auto-Install, the next time you turn on your PS5 console, your games and apps will be updated to their latest versions.
When you don't want to close your suspended game or app, only turn on Auto-Download.
PS5 console: Enter Rest Mode
Press the PS button to open the control centre and select Power > Enter Rest Mode. You can also press the console's power button once to enter rest mode.
How to set up auto-downloads and updates on PS4 consoles
Select a setting for steps.
PS4 console: Stay Connected to the Internet
Go to Settings > Power Saving Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode.
Turn on Stay Connected to the Internet and Enable Turning On PS4 from Network.
Selecting Enable Turning On PS4 from Network from this menu allows you to use PlayStation App or Remote Play to turn on your PS4 console while it's in rest mode.
PS4 console: Automatic Downloads
- Go to Settings > System > Automatic Downloads.
- Tick the box next to System Software Update Files.
- Tick the box next to Application Update Files.
PS4 console: Enter Rest Mode
Press and hold the PS button to open the Quick Menu and select Power > Enter Rest Mode. The power indicator on the PlayStation 4 console will turn orange.
How to enable remote game downloads
Once you have enabled auto-downloads and updates, remote downloads are available when purchasing content through PlayStation Store online or on mobile.
Plenty of Guardians are stuck at work and looking forward to prepping for Heroic WotM... but as soon as you get home you'll have to sit and stare at the download. You don't have to do that! You can force your PS4 to download from any browser if it's in Rest Mode at home.
Step 1 - Log into the PS Store. This can be done via the smartphone app or any browser.
Step 2 - Find something small and free in the store. I typically us a free theme.
Step 3 - "Purchase" the free theme. It's free, so it won't cost you any money. You may see an email confirmation regarding your $0.00 charge.
Step 4 - Download the free theme. This will wake your PS4 up and begin the download.
What happens next? After the initial download, your PS4 will automatically do a quick check for any updates available for installed software, including Destiny. It will download the update and then go back into Rest Mode.
Just trying to help working Guardians get back into the game ASAP.
Edit/Addition: It should be noted this ONLY works if you've enabled automatic downloads. Thanks to the Guardians below for reminding me.