PlayStation’s Voice Chat Feature Stemmed From Noble Cause

Sony has decided to clear the air in regard to the confusion caused by its recent voice chat feature. In an attempt to alleviate customer concerns, Catherine Jensen, VP Global Consumer Experience, SIE, published a lengthy explanation on blog.playstation.com. Said function, which initially made its way to the PS4 via the 8.000 system update, caused quite a stir.

Apparently, the voice chat feature was introduced to curb online bullying and harassment. Users can send a 40-second long voice clip as evidence to Sony of the alleged abuse or violation its Community Code of Conduct. The company vehemently denies that said feature will actively monitor or listen in to user conversations.

The PS5 will also support this voice recording function. Users will be able to use it communicate online as well as chat with PS4 users. However, there’s no way of opting-out of this Voice Chat feature, because Sony wants its users to feel safe while online and enjoy their gaming experience.

In a nutshell, this is how Voice Chat works:

“if a PS5 player needs to file a harassment report, they will be able to include up to a 40 second-long Voice Chat clip in their report — 20 seconds of the main conversation with the other player, plus an additional 10 seconds before and after the conversation selection. Only the most recent five minutes of a Voice Chat will be available.”

The company also acknowledges that it should have been more forthcoming with users about the new update and how it’ll work with the PS5. But, with its detailed explanation, it wants users to understand that its intentions were to help cultivate a safer place for PlayStation gamers and lead to them enjoyingthe best experience possible.