The PlayStation 5 can turn on many TVs automatically when the console powers up. This works through HDMI-CEC, which Sony labels as HDMI Device Link. When it is enabled, pressing the PS button on the controller or turning on the console can wake the TV and switch it to the correct HDMI input.
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What HDMI Device Link Does
HDMI Device Link lets the PS5 and TV exchange basic control commands over HDMI. Depending on your TV model, it can power the TV on, switch inputs, and sometimes let the TV remote control simple console navigation. The exact behaviour varies by brand, because manufacturers use different names and implementations for HDMI-CEC.
How to Enable It on PS5
- Open Settings from the PS5 home screen.
- Go to System.
- Select HDMI.
- Turn on Enable HDMI Device Link.
- Enable the available one-touch power options if they appear on your console.
After enabling the setting, put the console into rest mode or turn it off, then start it again with the controller. If the TV supports HDMI-CEC correctly, it should turn on and move to the PS5 input.
Check Your TV Settings Too
The PS5 setting is only half of the setup. HDMI-CEC must also be enabled on the TV. The feature may be called Bravia Sync, Anynet+, Simplink, VIERA Link, EasyLink, CEC, or HDMI Control depending on the brand. Look in the TV’s system, external device, input, or HDMI settings menu.
If your TV has multiple HDMI ports, use the input that supports the console’s full feature set. For PS5, this is especially important if you also want 4K, HDR, VRR, or 120Hz support.
If the TV Does Not Turn On
Start by connecting the PS5 directly to the TV rather than through a receiver, soundbar, splitter, or capture device. Some HDMI devices pass video correctly but block or mishandle CEC commands. Then restart both the TV and the PS5, unplug them briefly from power, and test again.
Also check whether another device is taking control of HDMI-CEC. Streaming boxes, soundbars, and set-top boxes can sometimes fight for input priority. Disabling CEC on devices you do not use for power control can make the PS5 behaviour more reliable.
Should You Leave It Enabled?
HDMI Device Link is convenient if your PS5 is the main device connected to the TV. If you share the display with several consoles, a PC, or a media box, automatic input switching can become annoying. In that case, leaving HDMI Device Link off may give you more predictable control.
Best Setup
For most players, the best configuration is simple: connect the PS5 directly to the TV with a suitable HDMI cable, enable HDMI Device Link on the console, enable HDMI-CEC on the TV, and test one-touch power from rest mode. Once it works, the TV should wake automatically whenever you start the PS5.
