Sony has officially announced that a new console, presumably the PlayStation 6, is currently in development. While detailed information about the next-generation console remains scarce, industry rumors suggest it will feature a handheld companion. As competitors such as Nintendo, Steam, and Xbox expand their handheld offerings, it appears that Sony is strategizing to enhance its presence in this segment. Recent insights indicate that the company is laying the groundwork for this anticipated handheld device.
Tech YouTuber Moore’s Law is Dead has previously shared purported insider information regarding the PS6, suggesting a release window between late 2027 and early 2028. In a recent episode of the Broken Silicon podcast, the insider reported notable changes to the PS5 software development kits (SDKs) that hint at Sony’s preparations for launching a handheld console. The adjustments point to a broader strategy to ensure compatibility between PlayStation games and the console’s Low Power Mode.
In a December 16 episode of Broken Silicon, Moore’s Law is Dead elaborated on the current status of PS6 handheld rumors. It was noted that Sony is prioritizing Power Save support across its gaming titles. Allegedly, the company has modified internal SDKs to enhance the energy efficiency of PlayStation games, allowing them to run under different CPU configurations. This initiative is a clear indication that Sony is considering a future where energy efficiency plays a critical role, particularly in handheld gaming.
The importance of Power Save functionality transcends handheld devices, as it can ultimately reduce energy consumption even for the traditional PS5 setup. However, the emphasis on optimizing Power Save across PlayStation games suggests that the company is preparing for something more significant—potentially the PS6 handheld. In light of the competitive landscape, where devices like the Steam Deck and the anticipated Switch 2 thrive on battery life, this focus on energy efficiency is crucial. Sony seems determined to ensure that its forthcoming handheld can compete effectively in terms of battery performance.
As seen with the Switch 2, having a robust library of backward-compatible titles is essential for the successful launch of a new console. While the Switch 2 may not have a plethora of exclusive games at launch, its backward compatibility allows gamers to transition smoothly from the previous generation. This strategy appears to be mirrored by Sony, as it looks to prepare PS5 games to support Power Save functionality. By doing this, the company aims to ensure that these titles can run effectively on the PS6 handheld without rapidly depleting its battery.
Moore’s Law is Dead has not disclosed specific sources for this information, meaning that it remains speculative at this stage. Sony has not confirmed the existence of a handheld or even the official title of its upcoming console. However, the increasing volume of rumors lends credibility to the notion that a new PlayStation handheld is indeed in development. If the projected timeline of late 2027 to early 2028 holds true, fans can likely expect official updates from Sony in the near future, sharpening anticipation for the next chapter in PlayStation history.
The concept of a new PlayStation handheld raises questions about how it will differentiate itself in an increasingly crowded market. As gamers continue to seek high-quality mobile experiences that do not compromise on performance or battery life, Sony’s efforts to ensure Power Save support across its titles could position it favorably against its competitors. This focus on energy efficiency and backward compatibility might not only attract existing PlayStation users but also entice new audiences to consider Sony’s next-generation offerings.
