As the PS5 approaches its fifth anniversary, Sony executives have started offering glimpses into the company’s long-term console strategy—addressing growing speculation about the development of a next-generation system.
In a recent investor-focused interview published on Sony's corporate site, Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO and President Hideaki Nishino was directly asked whether a new console is in the works, especially as cloud gaming becomes increasingly viable.
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Nishino began by reaffirming the continued relevance of physical console hardware despite advancements in cloud technology:
“We’ve been involved in cloud gaming for over 11 years, supporting PS3, PS4, and PS5 generations with services that deliver high-quality streaming experiences. PlayStation Plus Premium offers cloud streaming, and we’re even testing it on the PlayStation Portal.
“From a technical perspective, cloud gaming has made solid progress. However, long-term sustainability depends on factors beyond our control—especially end-to-end network stability.
“While cloud gaming provides an additional way to access games, most players still prefer local execution on a dedicated device, free from network dependency. The strong reception of both the PS5 and PS5 Pro supports this view.”
This confirms Sony’s ongoing commitment to traditional console hardware—for now.
But what about the future? Is a next-gen console, potentially the PS6, already in development?
Nishino addressed this directly:
“Our console business has evolved into a multi-faceted platform with a vast, engaged community spanning both PS5 and PS4 users. Naturally, there’s significant interest in our next-generation roadmap.
“While we can’t share specifics at this time, the future of our platform is a top priority. We’re actively exploring new and enhanced ways for players to engage with our content and services.”
AnswerSee ResultsThe message is clear: yes, Sony is developing a next-generation console. While no official details have been revealed, this aligns with historical patterns—development on the PS5 began shortly after the PS4 launched in 2013. It’s likely that PS6 R&D has been underway for several years already.Although Nishino didn’t disclose specifics, clues can be drawn from Sony’s recent moves. While a traditional, more powerful home console is expected, Sony may also be exploring hybrid portable options. The evolution of the PlayStation Portal suggests growing interest in mobile gameplay, and when asked about handhelds in the next-gen strategy, Nishino remained noncommittal.
The question of a next-gen console has lingered since the PS5’s 2020 launch. Now, with the console lifecycle past the midpoint and Microsoft entering the handheld space, industry shifts are inevitable. The only uncertainty is how Sony and Microsoft will choose to evolve.
In February, former SIE Worldwide Studios CEO Shawn Layden stated that Sony cannot afford to launch a fully digital, disc-less PS6. Unlike Xbox, which has found traction in a handful of English-speaking markets, PlayStation holds a leading position in approximately 170 countries. Removing physical media could alienate users in regions with limited internet infrastructure.
“I don’t think Sony can get away with it now,” Layden said. “Can users in rural Italy get a reliable connection for full game downloads? That’s a real concern.”
Additionally, in September of last year, reports confirmed that AMD secured the chip contract for the PS6, beating out Intel in 2022. Given the seven-year gap between PS4 (2013) and PS5 (2020), a November 2027 release for the PS6 seems plausible.
Potential launch titles may include Physint, Hideo Kojima’s return to action espionage, and The Witcher 4, which isn’t expected before 2027—hinting it could be a next-generation exclusive.
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