PS4 doesn't support external storage

The PlayStation 4 will not support external storage, Sony confirmed today as part of an "ultimate" FAQ about the next-generation console posted on the PlayStation Blog.

"No, this feature is not supported on PS4," Sony said.

The PS4 will, however, feature a 500GB hard drive that can be swapped out if the replacement meets various criteria.

"PS4 is equipped with a 5400 RPM SATA II hard drive. Users can choose to install a new hard drive so long as it complies with these standards, is no thicker than 9.5mm, and is larger than 160GB," Sony said.

The PS4 also lacks support for DLNA, which eliminates client functionality for media servers.

The FAQ, which Sony teased last week, includes numerous details about the next-generation console, which will launch in North America on November 15 for $400. Sony previously detailed the PS4's day-one patch, which will unlock a bevy of system features, including facial recognition, online multiplayer, and Remote Play.

Sony recommends that users orient the PS4 horizontally, though a vertical stand will be sold separately. In addition, the PS4 will be sold only in jet black, at least at launch, Sony said.

The document also includes details about what services PlayStation Plus subscribers will receive and what kind of options non-subscribers will have.

Subscribing to PS Plus ($50/year) is the only way to play most multiplayer online games on PS4, though some free-to-play games--like DC Universe Online and Warframe--will be available without a subscription.

PlayStation Plus benefits:

• Online Multiplayer
• Instant Game Collection
• Discounts
• Online Game Save
• Other benefits

Services available without PlayStation Plus:

• Accessing entertainment, film, and TV services (Users must subscribe separately to individual services)
• Share options, including sending gameplay video and screenshots to Facebook, screenshots to Twitter, or livestreaming gameplay via Ustream or Twitch
• Sharing video to Facebook,
• Playing PS4 games remotely using the PS Vita system (Remote Play)
• Comparing Trophy data with other users
• Sending and receiving text messages from other users
• PlayStation Store access (users must pay to purchase premium content)
• Live item, activity feeds on Dynamic Menu
• Party (cross game voice chat)
• Web browser
• PlayStation App services (on iOS/Android devices)

Also in the FAQ, it is confirmed that the PS4 will not support 4K output for still images and movie content, though this remains in consideration. The PS4 also does not support 4K output for games, Sony said. The PS4 supports 3D gameplay, but no launch titles are 3D compatible.

When playing disc-based games, some data must be installed to the hard drive, Sony said. However, some titles that use Sony's new PlayGo system will allow gamers to start playing before the entire game is downloaded.

Though the PS4 will support DVD and Blu-ray playback for movies, users will need to download and install the PS4's day-one update before they can do so. Audio CDs are not supported on the PS4.

Sony also addressed how loud the PS4 system will be while running. The company said the console will be "generally much quieter" than the PS3. The system also features a "stepless speed fan" system that will increase the speed of the fans as needed. Still, Sony said it is important to house the PS4 in an environment with "plenty of air circulation."

Previously announced PS4 features that will not be available at launch include the ability to share a controller over the Internet to assist a friend and the suspend/resume mode. In addition, players will not be able to suspend and resume their progress across different games at launch, Sony said.

Regarding cross-platform play, Sony said play between PS4 and PS3 users is "technically possible and some developers may choose to support it for their titles."

Also in the FAQ, Sony reiterated that the PS4 will fully support used games. The company also said that first-party titles will not use an Online Pass program, though third-party games might.

"When it comes to third-party titles, PlayStation won't dictate the strategy of publishers concerning Online Pass programs. However, most third parties have phased out the use of Online Pass systems, so they're unlikely to appear on PS4," Sony said.

Sony also confirmed in the FAQ that neither digital nor disc-based games will be region-locked. However, Sony said it recommends that all users purchase games at the region of their residence.

"In certain instances, a software publisher may choose to region lock a game title for specific reasons, but Sony Computer Entertainment expects these instances to be uncommon," Sony said.

Sony also confirmed that DualShock 4 controllers will be available in Magma Red and Wave Blue sometime after launch. Lastly, the company said PS4 users will not be able to share video content through YouTube right away.

"No. At launch, PS4 users will be able to use the Share button on the DualShock 4 controller to upload gameplay videos to their Facebook account, or to stream live gameplay to Ustream or Twitch."

Check out the full PS4 FAQ for more.