Closing Apps and Games on the PS5: A User-Friendly Guide

While the PlayStation 5 (PS5) has been available for some time now, many users are still getting acquainted with its various features. One common challenge is understanding how to close apps and games. In this article, we’ll provide you with a simple and concise guide to help you navigate this process effortlessly.

How do you close apps and games on the PS5?

The easiest way to close a game or app on your PS5 is to follow these steps:

1. Hold the PS button on your controller. This will bring up the home screen of your PS5.
2. Select the application or game you wish to close.
3. Press the options button on your DualSense controller.
4. A menu will appear on the PS5 screen. From there, choose the “Close App” option.

We understand that transitioning from the PS4 to the PS5 can take some time, as the new console boasts unique designs and optimized features. To assist you in maximizing your user experience, we’ve conducted thorough research and consulted expert gamers to compile a list of helpful tips. Here’s what we’ve learned:

Key Takeaways:

• Closing apps and games on the PS5 is a simple process: Hold the PS button, select the app/game, press options, and choose “Close App.”
• The PS5 automatically closes apps/games in specific scenarios, such as when you turn off the console or launch a different app/game.
• If you prefer no background processes, manually close apps/games.
• Troubleshoot unresponsive or freezing PS5 by allowing time for response, restarting, removing/reinstalling apps/games, or rebuilding the PS5 database.

Does the PlayStation 5 Automatically Close Applications and Games?

The PS5 offers an impressive feature that automatically closes applications and games in specific scenarios. In most cases, you won’t need to manually close them, as the console takes care of it for you. Here are a few instances when the PS5 automatically closes applications and games:

1. When you turn off the console, you will need to restart the game you were playing if you wish to continue from where you left off.
2. Launching a different game or application from the PS5 main screen will automatically end the one you were previously using.
3. Using the Switcher function on the console, switching to a different game or application will promptly close the previous one.

It’s important to note that when you leave a game to access the main screen or control panel, the game or app will not close itself. 

Similarly, if you leave the PS5 idle, applications and games will not be closed automatically. In such cases, if you prefer to have no background processes running, you will need to manually close the applications and games.

By following these straightforward steps and understanding the PS5’s automatic closing functionalities, you can effortlessly manage your applications and games, enhancing your overall user experience.

Manually Closing PS5 Games or Applications: A Step-by-Step Guide

To manually close PS5 games or applications, you can follow either of the two methods outlined below:

Method 1:

1. With the game or application still open, press and hold down the PlayStation button on your controller. This will take you to the PlayStation home screen.
2. From the home screen, locate and highlight the application or game you wish to close.
3. Press the options button on your PS5 DualSense controller. You can find the options button on the right side of the touchpad, and it is represented by three horizontal lines.
4. The options menu will appear on the screen. Select either the “Close Game” or “Close Application” option to terminate the game or application, respectively.

Method 2:

1. Instead of holding down the PlayStation button, in this method, simply press the button on your controller once and release it. This will bring up a quick menu displaying the control center at the bottom of your screen.
2. From the quick menu, select the “Switcher” option and choose the game or application you want to close.
3. Press the options button on your controller to bring up the options menu.
4. Within the options menu, select the option to close the application or game, and then press the X button on your controller. This action will effectively close the active application.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily and manually close games or applications on your PS5. Whether you prefer the first or second method, you now have the knowledge to efficiently manage your gaming experience.

Troubleshooting Unresponsive or Freezing PS5 When Closing Applications

While encountering unresponsiveness or freezing issues when closing applications on the PS5 is not a common occurrence, it can be frustrating when it happens. In this section, we’ll explore a few potential solutions to address this problem and get your PS5 back to optimal performance.

First Method: Allow Time for Response and Restart

1. Give your PS5 at least five minutes to see if it eventually responds to your request to close the application or game. Sometimes, a momentary delay can occur.
2. If the console remains unresponsive, press and hold the power button on your PS5 until it beeps twice. This signifies that the console is turning off. Wait for it to completely shut down.
3. After waiting ten seconds or more, turn on the console again. This will end all applications and help resolve any freezing issues.

Removing and Reinstalling the App or Game

In some cases, the problem may persist, specifically with a particular app or game. To address this, you can try removing and reinstalling the app or game. Follow these steps:

1. From the PS5 home screen, select the app or game causing the issue.
2. Press the options button on your controller.
3. Choose the “Delete” option from the menu that appears to remove the app or game from your PS5.
4. To reinstall the app or game, navigate to the app or game library on your console’s home screen.
5. Locate the app or game in the library and select the “Install” option next to it.

Rebuilding the PS5 Database

If your PS5 continues to experience freezing issues with multiple applications or games, it may be helpful to rebuild your PS5 database. Follow these steps:

1. Hold down the power button on your PS5 until it beeps twice to turn it off.
2. Connect your controller to the PS5 using the USB cable provided with the controller.
3. Press the PlayStation button on your controller to enter safe mode.
4. From the safe mode menu, select the “Rebuild Database” option and press X. The PS5 will initiate the process by scanning and rebuilding the database. Please note that this procedure may take some time, depending on the data stored on your console.

Following these methods should resolve the unresponsiveness or freezing issues when closing applications on your PS5. If the problem persists, we recommend reaching out to PlayStation support for further assistance.

We hope these solutions help you enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience on your PS5.

Effortlessly Managing Your PS5: A Guide to Closing Apps and Games

In conclusion, mastering the process of closing apps and games on your PS5 can greatly enhance your overall user experience. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can seamlessly navigate through your applications and games, optimizing your time and enjoyment.

Additionally, understanding the PS5’s automatic closing functionalities ensures that you are aware of when apps and games are automatically closed and when they require manual closure. This knowledge empowers you to manage your background processes effectively and maintain control over your gaming sessions.

Should you encounter any unresponsiveness or freezing issues when closing applications, the troubleshooting tips provided in this guide can help you overcome them. From allowing time for response and restarting to removing and reinstalling problematic apps or games, and even rebuilding the PS5 database, these methods can resolve common issues and restore optimal performance.

With this comprehensive guide at your disposal, you are well-equipped to effortlessly manage your PS5, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience. Happy gaming!