A credible source has suggested that two distinct chipsets are in development for the PlayStation 6, possibly indicating a separate console launching alongside the next-gen machine. This fuels ongoing speculation about a new PlayStation handheld, which could accompany the PS6 if these reports are accurate.

While the PS6 is still several years from release, rumors about its development are already circulating. Court documents from Microsoft’s legal proceedings to acquire Activision Blizzard revealed that Sony is targeting a 2027-2028 launch window for its next-generation console. Additionally,
a recent report indicated that Sony finalized a deal with AMD in 2022 to design and manufacture the PS6’s chipset, ensuring backwards compatibility. Clearly, work on the PS5 successor is in full swing, and it seems Sony may have more hardware plans in store.

Speculation about a new PlayStation handheld has gained momentum recently. Reputable hardware insider KeplerL2 suggested that this long-rumored handheld could be released alongside the PS6. In a NeoGAF forum thread discussing the PS6’s price, KeplerL2 mentioned that two separate System-on-a-Chip (SoC) designs are in development for Sony’s next-gen console. While it’s uncertain if this suggests a “Series X/S situation” or a home console and handheld combo, the insider noted that one of them will “probably” be more affordable.

It seems unlikely that Sony would follow the Series S model with a budget-friendly next-gen console, given that several developers have criticized the optimization challenges associated with it. This was evident when the 2023 Game of the Year winner, Baldur’s Gate 3, delayed its Xbox launch due to these issues. Since the PS4 era, Sony has prioritized a developer-friendly approach, making a budget PS6 less plausible. In contrast, handheld consoles have surged in popularity, thanks to the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck.

With reports suggesting that Sony is closely monitoring the handheld market, the possibility of a new PlayStation handheld seems increasingly realistic. However, it’s important to approach these rumors with a healthy dose of skepticism. Given that the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected to retain its predecessor’s handheld form, Valve has hinted at a Steam Deck successor, and Microsoft is reportedly working on a next-gen Xbox handheld, it appears to be only a matter of time before PlayStation reenters the handheld space.

As the gaming landscape evolves, fans are left eagerly anticipating what Sony has planned for the future!