Highlights
- Sony may delay the PlayStation 6 launch to 2028 or 2029 due to persistent RAM and memory shortages driven by rising AI demand.
- The shortages and rising component costs are impacting both Sony and Microsoft, with reports suggesting delays for next-gen Xbox as well.
- Reports also suggest Nintendo is considering a possible price hike for the Switch 2 in 2026, though no final decision has been made.
Reports indicate a possible delay in PS6 launch. (Image credit – Sony)
Sony could reportedly delay the launch of its next-generation gaming console, the PlayStation 6. Earlier rumours did suggest a 2027 debut for the PS6, but it appears that timeline won’t be holding up due to multiple ongoing industry issues. Here are more details on that.
PS6 Launch Timeline May Shift to 2029?
According to a report from Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter, Sony is evaluating the possibility of pushing the PlayStation 6 launch window due to persistent memory supply constraints and increasing component costs.
The ongoing RAM and memory shortages fuelled largely by rising AI demand mayforce the company to postpone its release timeline to 2028 or even 2029.
Just last month, an industry analyst suggested that the PS6 could be delayed beyond 2028 as Sony considers extending the lifecycle of the PlayStation 5. Now, the Bloomberg report claims the next-generation console could arrive in 2028 or even as late as 2029.
PS5 in the picture for reference. (Image credit – Sony)
If Sony proceeds with a delay beyond 2027, it would break the company’s established seven-year release cycle for its home consoles. It is a pattern that has been consistent since the PlayStation 3 era. Just to recall, the PS5 and the Xbox Series S/Xbox Series X were both launched in 2020 and are now approaching six years in the market.
AI Demand Driving Memory Shortages
The reported delay is largely attributed to a growing chip and memory crunch caused by increased demand for AI infrastructure. The surge in artificial intelligence workloads has significantly impacted RAM and memory availability.
An earlier report from Insider Gaming in December also claimed that the escalating chip crisis could delay both the PS6 and the next-generation Xbox. Rising RAM and memory prices have reportedly become a concern for major platform holders such as Sony and Microsoft.
Although Sony has not officially confirmed its plans for the PS6, the company is widely believed to be actively developing the console. Leaks last year suggested that both the PS6 and the next Xbox could launch in 2027.
Nintendo Switch 2 Price Hike Rumours
Nintendo price hike rumours are gaining momentum. (Image credit – Nintendo)
The Bloomberg report also touched on developments at Nintendo. The company is reportedly considering a potential price increase for the Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. The console launched last year in the US at $449.99 and has since sold more than 17 million units globally.
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa recently addressed concerns about rising component prices and their impact on hardware profitability. “We do not disclose details regarding individual components, but we can say that we are working to secure stable supplies of memory components by holding discussions from a long-term perspective with our business partners,” Furukawa explained.
He further added, “As for any future change in the price of Nintendo Switch 2 hardware, no decision has been made at this time. Any decision to change the price will be determined comprehensively, taking into consideration not only profitability, but also other factors like the platform’s installed base, sales trends, and the market environment,” Furukawa added.
FAQ
Q1. Why might Sony delay the launch of the PlayStation 6?
Answer. Sony is reportedly considering pushing the PS6 release to 2028 or 2029 due to persistent RAM and memory shortages driven by rising AI demand, which has increased component costs and disrupted supply chains.
Q2. How would a PS6 delay affect Sony’s usual console release cycle?
Answer. If Sony delays beyond 2027, it would break its established seven-year release cycle that has been consistent since the PlayStation 3 era. The PS5, launched in 2020, is now approaching six years in the market.
Q3. What is happening with Nintendo’s next console, the Switch 2?
Answer. Nintendo is reportedly considering a price increase for the Switch 2 in 2026 due to rising component costs, though no final decision has been made. The company has sold over 17 million units globally since its launch at $449.99.
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https://www.mymobileindia.com/ps6-leak-points-to-30gb-gddr7-ram-upgrade-higher-console-price-likely/