All signs point to a full release in 2024 with a specs bump that could support higher refresh rates at 4K and even resolutions up to 8K.
Are you disappointed that Nintendo may not release the Switch 2 in 2024? Well, Sony may have something to bandage your bleeding heart. The PlayStation 5 Pro, rumored as “Project Viola,” or “Trinity” may be looking for space in consumer’s carts sometime around this holiday season. Just as past upgraded PlayStation models of past console generations beefed up specs while keeping the same basic infrastructure, Sony seems to be looking for some moderate upgrades for its already expensive mainline gaming console.
There’s certainly precedent for a new, more powerful PS5. For context, Sony released a “Pro” version of its PlayStation 4 in 2016–three years after the original PS4 debut–with a better graphics processor and CPU clock speeds. This was in addition to the “Slim” version of the PS4, which had a smaller, lighter chassis. Last year, Sony released a slimmer version of the PS5 that also cut down on overall weight and footprint. In effect, the slim version has replaced the older version of the PS5.
We should also note that Microsoft and Xbox have hinted they are also looking at new hardware, with Xbox President Sarah Bond saying they want to establish “the largest technical leap you’ve ever seen in a hardware generation.” Now, take that for what you will, but by our estimation, it would seem a little early to release a new sequel to the Xbox Series X, which first debuted in 2020. Some have taken this to mean Xbox could release its handheld console, whether that’s some kind of streaming device akin to a Logitech G Cloud or a full-fledged Steam Deck-like.
Considering how much emphasis Xbox places on Game Pass and moving its first-party titles onto other platforms, it seems whatever Microsoft is cooking up will be a big surprise.
Games industry analysts and rumormongers all support that a new PlayStation 5 “Pro” model should hit store shelves this year. Games industry analyst Serkan Toto told CNBC there is “broad consensus” that Sony is preparing a PS5 Pro launch slated for the second half 2025. This is apparently to get ahead of the expected megahit Grand Theft Auto VI, which should be coming sometime in 2025. Of course, that’s only if the game doesn’t hit any delays that push it even further back in time.
New reports suggest the PS5 Pro will see the light this holiday season.
