PlayStation Reveals How Many Gamers Turn Off Their PS5 Compared to Putting It in Rest Mode

Half of PlayStation 5 users bypass rest mode, opting for a complete system shutdown instead, according to Sony. This surprising statistic, revealed by Cory Gasaway (Sony Interactive Entertainment's VP of game, product, and player experiences) in an interview with Stephen Totilo, highlights a significant design challenge for console manufacturers. The 50/50 split prompted the development of the PS5 Welcome Hub, aiming to create a unified user experience despite diverse player preferences.

Rest mode, a feature touted for its energy efficiency and convenient download management, hasn't universally resonated with PS5 owners. While initially promoted by Sony as an environmentally conscious feature, a considerable portion of the user base prefers a full shutdown. Reasons for this preference remain varied and anecdotal, ranging from perceived impacts on internet functionality to simple user habit. Some users report internet connectivity issues when rest mode is enabled, leading them to keep their consoles powered on for downloads.

The Welcome Hub, born from a PlayStation hackathon, directly addresses this split. Its design, intended to provide a consistent starting point, adapts to individual usage patterns. In the US, users see the PS5 Explore page; internationally, the most recently played game is highlighted. This customizable approach aims to bridge the gap between users who utilize rest mode and those who don't. Ultimately, Gasaway's revelation sheds light on the complexities of user interface design and the importance of catering to a broad spectrum of player behaviors. The lack of a single, dominant reason for avoiding rest mode underscores the need for flexible and adaptable console features.