Sony Investigating Slow PS4 Download Speeds

Sony has said it is investigating slow download speeds affecting PlayStation 4 customers.

Numerous reports of lengthy download times have emerged online in the past week, and, posting on the official PlayStation community forums, Sony has acknowledged the issue.

"We are aware of reports that some users are experiencing slower than usual download speeds from the PlayStation Store," it said.

"This has been reported to our network team for investigation. Please keep an eye on this thread for updates."

Anecdotally, GameSpot staff have encountered lengthy delays from downloading files of various sizes. On initiating a download, the estimated time of arrival begins at 99+ hours. This eventually drops, but not to a time that reasonably reflects the file size and internet speed.

The PlayStation Network performance issues coincide with the long-awaited release of Driveclub's free PlayStation Plus Edition, though there isn't necessarily a connection between the two.

After significant delays, the free version of Evolution Studios' PS4 exclusive racing sim was given a release date.

"We’ve spent a long time preparing for this launch after some difficult and unexpected set-backs," said Shuhei Yoshida, president of Sony's worldwide studios.

"To make absolutely certain that all players have the smoothest and most stable experience possible we are going to be duly cautious about how we release the game this time around."

PlayStation Plus members can download the game and play it offline. Sony has said it will roll out online access and will "steadily bring more and more players online while continuously ensuring that all game systems are running smoothly."