The buzz about the PlayStation 5 is still fresh, but that doesn’t stop us from daydreaming about what the future holds for the PlayStation 6. Even though the PS6’s release might be a while away, there’s already a lot of talk – some of it coming from official sources – about when Sony’s next-gen console might make its grand entrance.
For those lucky enough to have snagged a PS5, there’s hope that the new backwards compatibility trend will continue, so your favorite PS5 games can smoothly transition to the new console. Plus, get ready for some serious upgrades in specs, all while the competition from the next-gen Xbox release adds an extra layer of excitement. Let’s dive into what we know so far about the potential PS6.
PlayStation 6 release date
If we think about waiting for about seven or possibly eight more years for new game consoles, then we might expect the PlayStation 6 to come out in 2028 at the soonest.
But official court documents involving Activision Blizzard, Sony, and Microsoft imply that the next PlayStation could be released in 2027. This information can be found on page 8 of a 22-page document. Sony has stated that Microsoft had “offered to continue making Activision’s games available on PlayStation only until 2027.”
The specific year when the PS6 is set to be released has been removed from the document, but it’s not difficult to understand that the document strongly suggests a possible launch for the next PlayStation in 2027 or 2028.
Considering that both the PS4 and PS5 were launched in November, it’s a pretty safe bet that the PS6 might follow suit with a November 2027 release. This timeline seems a bit longer than Sony’s usual console release pattern, where there were seven years between the PS3, PS4, and PS5.
When it comes to the different versions of the console, we might see both a disc-based and a digital edition of the PS6. However, the likelihood of a disc-free version is quite high, as more gamers are leaning towards downloading games digitally.
Sony Secures Trademarks for Future PlayStation Consoles
Sony has just made sure no one else can use the names PlayStation 6 through 10 by registering them as trademarks in Japan. However, this doesn’t mean the PlayStation 6 is coming soon. Sony often registers new console names well in advance. For instance, they registered PlayStation 5 in 2006, but it didn’t release until 2020. So, don’t expect a surprise early release.
If we estimate based on historical patterns with a seven-year gap between each console release (like between PlayStation 3 and 4, and PlayStation 4 and 5), then we might see the PlayStation 6 around 2027. But these are just rough calculations.
That’s still quite a distance into the future, of course. But for now, keep an eye out for the PlayStation 5 Slim and PlayStation 5 Pro. Sony will probably introduce these versions in the upcoming years to make some more money from us while they continue developing the PlayStation 6.
PlayStation 6 price
Many PlayStation fans will also be wondering about the potential price. Of course, it’s probably too early to speculate, but previous models have sold for between $400 and $500.
Based on the expected features and looking at how current consoles are priced, experts are estimating that the PS6 might be around $499.99 / £479.99. While the price could potentially go over $500, Sony needs to be careful not to fall behind Microsoft’s offerings. We’re predicting that the next-gen Xbox will be priced at around $350.
Sony might also consider offering a more budget-friendly version of the PS6, similar to what Microsoft did with the Series X and S. However, Sony’s final decision is still up in the air, and we’re eagerly waiting to see what they choose for the next generation.
PlayStation 6 specs
Even though the PS 6 specs aren’t finalized, Sony’s goals for its next-gen system are becoming clearer. The gaming industry is marked by rapid advancements, and the PS6 is poised to keep pace. By aligning its hardware evolution with release trends, the PS6 aims to offer cutting-edge technology that not only meets gamers’ expectations but also embraces the innovative spirit of the gaming world.
PlayStation 6 Visual Brilliance
The PS6 is all set to bring you 4K 60 FPS gameplay, with support for 120 FPS at 1440p. While the idea of 4K 120 FPS sounds amazing, the reality is that some games might be too demanding for Sony’s hardware to consistently achieve this level of performance.
Right now, games can change how clear and smooth they look, which can be a bit confusing. The different performance and quality modes don’t help either. Plus, not many people have 8K TVs yet, so aiming for even higher resolutions doesn’t seem necessary at the moment.
AMD Chipset
As gaming technology races forward, the PlayStation 6 is gearing up to harness the power of an advanced AMD chipset. This technological heart, expected to be at the core of the PS6, promises to drive innovation. It also aims to push the boundaries of gaming experiences to new heights.
Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU
Inspired by its forerunner, the PS5, the PS6 is speculated to include a custom Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU combo. This powerful pair, renowned for their remarkable capabilities, aims to elevate the PS6’s performance, creating a seamless and immersive gaming atmosphere for players.
RAM Revamp
In the realm of gaming, memory is a key player in delivering smooth and responsive experiences. The PS6 is rumored to take a significant leap by potentially increasing its RAM capacity from 16 GB to an impressive 32 GB. This enhancement aims to cater to the growing demands of increasingly complex and immersive game worlds.
At the launch of the PS5, much excitement surrounded the speed of its SSD, which significantly reduced load times and swiftly brought data to the console’s RAM compared to traditional hard drives. It’s probable that console designers will keep pushing in this direction. Currently, PCIe 4.0 drives reach around a 7 Gbps read speed. Upgrading the PS6 with a PCIe 5.0 interface could potentially double that speed.
Storage Dreams
The PS5 impressed gamers with its 1 TB M.2 module, offering ample space for game installations. However, the PS6 is setting its sights higher. It aspires to provide an even more expansive storage solution.
Improved User Interface
The PS5 definitely needs an update and its flaws must go away with the PlayStation 6. Navigation in the PlayStation Store is a hassle as well as trying to find friends and arranging a party. With the PS6, we hope for an upgraded PlayStation Store with simpler navigation and a more accessible UI.
PlayStation 6 features
VR integration
Gaming is going towards virtual reality. Currently, we have to buy different devices to connect to our existing computers for enjoying virtual reality games. But with the PlayStation 6, Sony might bring motion controllers and headsets in the same box as the console.
DualSense controller
We’re also keeping a close watch on the second generation of the DualSense controller. If Sony sticks with the same naming pattern, we might get a DualSense controller with improved battery life and some of the cool modular features found in the DualSense Edge concept.
Streaming-only console
Companies like Sony, Microsoft, Nvidia, Google, and Amazon have dabbled in cloud gaming services, where you play using an app on various devices, including tablets, laptops, TVs, and sometimes even the controller itself.
However, transforming the PS6 into a streaming-only console might not happen right away. The super-fast internet needed for this isn’t widely available yet. Still, it’s something Sony could focus on more in the future.
Generative AI and Advanced Ray Tracing
Generative AI could revolutionize gaming, making single-player games more interactive and immersive. Sony’s also exploring into ray tracing reconstruction technology, as hinted in a recent presentation. This tech, initially discussed for movies, is being tailored for gaming.
According to RedGamingTech’s sources, expect path tracing in PlayStation 6 games to become somewhat common. It should be similar to how ray tracing is seen in current console games. While not every title will support it, the ones that do will likely deliver breathtaking visuals.
Portable Consoles
Sony is considering merging its home and portable console lines. With the absence of a PSP since the demise of the Vita, a PlayStation device similar to the Nintendo Switch could fill that void.
Enter the “PlayStation Portal,” a handheld device unveiled at the 2023 PlayStation Showcase. Imagine someone slicing a DualSense controller in half and inserting an iPad in the gap.
This device allows game streaming over Wi-Fi from your PS5 using Remote Play functionality. It’s an intriguing way to untether the PS5 from the TV, and it sparks curiosity about the potential evolution of this concept with the future PS6.
Modular build
Some fans are suggesting that giving the PS6 a modular build would be an excellent move on Sony’s part. That would make it easy to swap out components when they break instead of replacing the whole thing. However, this wish list item seems like nothing more than a pipe dream.
No disc drive for PlayStation 6?
If Sony removes the disc drive, it could disappoint some gamers, but there’s no denying that the gaming market is going digital. By the time the PS6 is launched, disc drives might be totally obsolete.
Final word
Those who have acquired the PS5 are eagerly anticipating the continuation of the trend of playing older games on new consoles. Interestingly, recent developments and hints from official documents suggest that the release date of the PlayStation 6 might be sooner than many initially thought. So, the gaming community might be in for some exciting surprises in the near future i.e 2027.
This means your beloved PS5 games might just carry over to the PS6. Plus, get ready for a serious boost in specs. And don’t forget, there’s a new Xbox on the horizon too, which is set to arrive around the same time. The wait might be long, but it’s definitely going to be worth it when the PS6 finally hits the scene. Get ready for an incredible journey into the future of gaming.
This article was updated with the latest information on Dec. 5, 2023.
