Why does PS5 say 'can’t use this content'?

⚡ Fast fix

• Restore the license for your game.
• Ask friends or family members to enable console sharing and offline play for games you share.
• Check the PlayStation Network page to verify that the service isn't down.  
• Need a hand? Stop by a nearby uBreakiFix® by Asurion and a repair expert can help solve the issue.

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Controller in hand, you settle into your comfy sofa, ready for a rousing round of Gran Turismo® 7. After selecting the game from the Home screen, you wait for it to load. But instead of seeing the ubiquitous GT® logo, an error message appears: "Can't use this content on PS5®." What gives?

Don't fret—Asurion Experts help gamers resolve problems like this every day. From fixing a PS5 controller that won't connect to accessing more PS5 storage, we have answers for your tech care needs. Here's what to do when you get a PS5 "can't use this content" error. 

What causes the 'can't use this content' message?

You may encounter a "can't use this content, it will take some time" message when you play digital, shared, or subscription games. These games use PlayStation's verification tools to check whether you have the license to play them. If PlayStation finds a disconnect, it temporarily blocks content until you resolve the issue.

Changes to your user profile and console-sharing settings can affect access. For example, when someone else signs in to your PS5, PlayStation checks their account data. If they don't have a license for a game (and you do), you'll be unable to play it. Similarly, playing a game someone else owns will only work if they enable console sharing.

Like any internet service, PlayStation Network occasionally goes offline. When it does, it can affect your ability to play games. Visit the PlayStation Network status page to verify the service is up and running. 

System updates may also affect gameplay. Make a habit of installing updates when they're available to avoid common PS5 issues. 

Check your account and license settings

Sometimes, a settings or user account adjustment will bypass the "Can't use this content PS5, it will take some time" message. Try these tweaks before attempting a more in-depth solution.

Verify console sharing settings

Are you playing a game linked to a friend or family member's account? Make sure they've enabled console sharing and offline play on their device. If this setting is off, PlayStation won't authorize gameplay.

1. Navigate to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other.
2. Select Console Sharing and Offline Play. 
3. Select Enable. 

Restore game licenses through PS5 system settings

Does a "Can't use this content, your licenses are being verified" PS5 message appear? It's possible that your current license is corrupt. Restoring the license could resolve the error.

1. Navigate to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other.
2. Select Restore Licenses.
3. Select your game to restore its license.

Check your account information

A mismatched sign-in or inactive account can cause game errors. Verify that you're signed in to your device by navigating to Settings > Users and Accounts. If someone else is logged in to the PS5, log them out and sign in with your account. This will give you access to games associated with your user profile.

It's a good idea to check the status of your PlayStation account. If your account is inactive, digital games may be unavailable. You can manage your account through the PlayStation Support website.

Verify updates and restore game access

PlayStation updates often contain new features, performance enhancements, and security fixes. If you don't have the latest update, it could cause digital or disc access errors. To update your PS5, take these steps.

1. Navigate to Settings > System.
2. Select System Software > System Software Update and Settings. Look for an Update Available message. 
3. Select Update System Software to install available updates.

If you've made recent changes to your PlayStation account, log out of your device and sign back in. By doing so, you'll link your most recent account data with the PS5. That's important if you renewed an inactive account or previously logged into another device. 

Restarting the console and your Wi-Fi network may be necessary if the game is unresponsive. Poor internet connectivity can cause your device to disconnect from the PlayStation Network. 

When to delete and reinstall games

If game errors continue, consider deleting the game and reinstalling it. PlayStation saves your game progress to the cloud, so you won't lose previous data.

1. Navigate to Game Library from the Home screen.
2. Select the game to delete.
3. Press the Options button on your control. Select Delete. 

To reinstall the game, take these steps.

1. Navigate to Game Library > Purchased.
2. Select the game to install.
3. Select Download. 

Parental controls and region restrictions may prevent you from playing games you own. Keep that in mind if someone else manages your account, or if you're traveling.