Sony confirms PSN name changes for PS4, here's how they work

If you've ever wanted to change your PSN ID online on your PS4 but were frustrated by its inability to do so, here's good news on the horizon. Sony has announced that it will test a new feature that will allow you to change the name of your PlayStation Network. The much-needed feature of online PSN login change is currently entering the PlayStation preview program before spreading more widely to all users.

From now on, this feature will only be available to PlayStation users who have registered as testers for previous versions of the PS4 system software. For those who have access, you can make your first modification for free. Later changes will cost 10 USD / CAD / 9.99 € / 7.99 £. For PlayStation Plus members, it will cost you 5 USD / CAD / 4,99 € / 3,99 £ after the first change.

To make the change, authorized users can access the feature through the Settings menu or through the Profile page of your PS4. You will also be able to display your old PSN ID with your new ID (so your friends can recognize you). This is a choice that users will have to make; once you decide to display your old ID or not, you will not be able to change it.

Another disadvantage is that the new feature will not be compatible with all games. It will be compatible with PS4 games released after April 1, 2018 and "most of the most played PS4 games" released before that date. PlayStation makes it clear that the functionality is not guaranteed on all PS4, PS3 and PS Vita games, so users may encounter problems or errors in some games. If you have problems with the change, PlayStation allows you to go back to your old username for free.

The preview program is scheduled for the end of November 2018 and PlayStation plans to broadcast it for all PS4 players in early 2019. On that date, a full list of compatible games (those released prior to April 1, 2018) will be released.