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Sony’s New DRM Requires 14-Day Online Activation

4/30/2026

Summary

Sony Adds DRM

Sony introduced DRM that forces PlayStation consoles online within 14 days of purchase to validate a license.
It grants a 30-day license, then replaces it with a perpetual license after the 14-day refund window.
After the swap, users can play offline without further checks, stopping the refund exploit the DRM targets.
On PS4 a license file installs for every title and works if the console is primary or online.

Summary

Sony License Update

A 30-day license is installed at purchase and may become indefinite after about two weeks.
Indefinite licenses are granted for games owned outright, while PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium titles get a 14-day license and Essential titles remain licensed for the subscription.
One buyer received a permanent license 16 days after buying on 9 April.
Another buyer’s 27 April purchase shows only the 30-day license, and the change persists after delete-and-reinstall, indicating it is account-linked.

History

Historical Context

Microsoft launched Xbox Live in November 2002 as a broadband-only service, reaching two million subscribers by July 2005. Its early requirement for online activation and subscription set a precedent for console DRM. Sony’s 2024 PlayStation licensing, which ties games to a 30-day trial then permanent access, echoes that Xbox Live model, prompting regulator scrutiny.

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Sony Adds DRM

Sony introduced DRM that forces PlayStation consoles online within 14 days of purchase to validate a license.
It grants a 30-day license, then replaces it with a perpetual license after the 14-day refund window.
After the swap, users can play offline without further checks, stopping the refund exploit the DRM targets.
On PS4 a license file installs for every title and works if the console is primary or online.

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