You are Restricted From Using Communication Features


Encountering the "You are restricted from using communication features" error on your PS5 can be frustrating, but fear not. I will explain the causes of this error and how to fix it. 

I have found that the most common cause for this error is a restricted account being signed in simultaneously with a normal account on the console.

If you have two microphones connected at once e.g. two controllers connected at the same time and signed into two users the error will be triggered. 

It is triggered because both microphones will be working and if you are playing online as a single player the console will automatically disable the communication features to avoid un wanted chats from the other controller hence the error 'You are restricted from using communication features'. 


Causes of the Error

The most common cause of the "You are restricted from using communication features" error is having a restricted account signed in simultaneously with another account on the console, each with their microphone active. 

This can occur if, for example, you have two controllers connected and signed in to two separate accounts.

Below are some reasons that causes 'You are are restricted from using communication features' and how to fix them starting with the most relevant ones.

  • Simultaneously signed into two user.
  • Account needs parental permission.
  • Two microphones working simultaneously.
  • Console sharing and offline play Trick


Solving the Error

1. Simultaneously Signed into Multiple Users

This is a prevalent cause of the error. When you're signed in to two or more users, especially if one has restrictions, the error can arise due to the restriction against simultaneous chatting. Follow these steps to resolve it:


  1. Sign out from all users or guests, leaving only one account signed in.
  2. Restart your console after signing out, then sign in again and start the game to verify if the issue is resolved.


2. Account Requiring Parental Permission

If your account is under management by your guardian you might need parental permission from your manager/guardian. You can send a request and your guardian should confirm your request. 

It could be your account is restricted to using communication features. Some games require parental permission for you to access communication features. 

If you are the guardian or manager or your account is not restricted in anyway check to see if your child's account is signed in.


3. Multiple Simultaneous Microphones:

Using more than one microphone at the same time can trigger the error due to the system disabling communication features to prevent overlapping conversations.


This happens because you can only use on microphone at a time when playing online as a single player. 

Having two/more microphones will disable the communication features to avoid unwanted chats from the other microphones that are not in use. 

This usually happens if you have connected two/more controllers to your PS5 as the DualSense (PS5 controller) has a mic. having two controllers will count as having two microphones as well

You can fix this issue by turning off all the controllers that are connected and signed in as a user only remaining with one, this should fix the issue. 

If the issue persists, shutdown your PlayStation 5 and only use one controller when you turn on the PS5


4. Console Sharing and Offline Play Trick:

This trick works well in solving the error ' You are restricted from using communication features' This trick works because it will sign you out of all accounts including any account which has any restrictions. 

To perform this trick you will have to follow the steps below:

  1. Navigate to PS5 Settings.
  2. Select Users and Accounts.
  3. Select others then "Console Sharing and Offline Play."
  4. Disable this feature.

Now once you do this it should sign you out of PSN otherwise manually sign out and restart your PS5. 

After you have restarted your console sign back in and Re-Enable console sharing and offline play. This should fix the error You are restricted from using communication features. 


Conclusion

The "You are restricted from using communication features" error on your PS5 can be resolved through several methods. 


From ensuring only one user is signed in to addressing microphone conflicts and managing parental permissions, you have various strategies to choose from. 


The Console Sharing and Offline Play trick also stands as an effective solution. By following these steps, you can swiftly restore communication features and enjoy a seamless gaming experience on your PS5.


Related: How to restore licenses on PS5/PS4



FAQs

What is console sharing and offline play?

Console sharing and offline play is the same activating your PS5 as primary.


How does using multiple microphones simultaneously cause the error?

Using more than one microphone concurrently can trigger the error because the system disables communication features to prevent overlapping conversations. This is particularly relevant when playing games as a single player.

Can parental permission be a factor in this error?

Yes, if your account is managed by a guardian, you might need parental permission to access communication features. Request permission from your guardian or manager, and ensure that the necessary permissions are granted to avoid the error.


What if I'm using multiple microphones or controllers?

Using multiple microphones or controllers can trigger the error, as the system might disable communication features to prevent overlapping conversations. Disable all but one microphone or controller, and if needed, restart your console to resolve the issue.


How can I fix the error when signed into multiple accounts?

If you're signed in to multiple accounts, ensure you are only signed into one account without any restrictions. Sign out from all other accounts and restart your console. Sign back in with the unrestricted account and verify if the issue is resolved.