
There's been a lot of talk about an update coming to the PS5, but Sony has remained tight-lipped so far. That hasn't stopped its long-time console rival Microsoft from predicting what to expect from PlayStation and even the price of new hardware.
Unless you've been living under a rock, you'll know that Microsoft is trying to buy Activision Blizzard. In its trial with the US Federal Trade Commission, Microsoft has been shockingly transparent with its vision of the future of the games industry. In its case, Microsoft states, “PlayStation likewise sells a less expensive Digital Edition for $399.99, and is expected to release a PlayStation 5 Slim later this year at the same reduced price point.”
Let's unpack that statement. First of all, there has been no official confirmation of a PS5 Slim, although rumours are rife. The recent PlayStation Showcase had no mention of it whatsoever, so for it to arrive this year would be a real turn-up. There was no mention of if it would come with any performance upgrades or just a reduced bulk, but past PlayStations have received mid-generation power boosts. As for the price, it sounds pretty good, cheaper than a standard PS5 and if it has a disc drive, it would be excellent value and become the model to get.
As for Project Q, the handheld streaming device is officially coming and Microsoft expects it to be under $300. To be honest, I should hope so too. While it's undoubtedly appealing to be able to play PS5 games on a handheld, Project Q does have some limitations. It is essentially a streaming device, you will need to be within proximity of your PS5 to play games on it. If your concern is competing for the use of the family TV, $300 (around £250) is hard to justify when you could just buy one of the best gaming monitors. Plus, with the likes of the Steam Deck and ROG Ally acting as standalone handheld devices, Sony will need to offer something special. Fingers crossed it delivers.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Andy was T3's Tech Staff Writer, covering all things technology, including his biggest passions such as gaming. If he had to save one possession from a fire it would be his PlayStation 5. He previously worked for Tom’s Guide – where he got paid to play with ChatGPT everyday. When it comes to streaming, Andy will have his headphones glued in whilst watching something that will make him laugh. He studied Creative Writing at university, but also enjoys supporting his favourite football team (Liverpool), watching F1, teaching himself guitar, and spending time with his dog.
-
Google Pixel 9a reportedly coming with a stack of freebies
Google’s new Pixel 9a could come with a few somethings to sweeten the deal
By Chris Hall Published
-
This smart tracking device has something Apple's AirTag can't match – and it's very affordable too
Kickstarter project could shake up the Find My market
By Britta O'Boyle Published
-
I've fallen in love with my PS5 Pro at last thanks to this huge new game
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II has put my console through its paces
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
Sony adds peace of mind to its OLED displays
Sony promises you won't get burned if you buy its InZone OLED monitors
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
Sony's binning Blu-ray, but that won't cut your home cinema choices
Sony is shutting down Blu-ray disc production, but it's not as bad as some have reported
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
Microsoft's next Surface laptops could be smaller and more affordable
Ultra-portable 11-inch versions of the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro could arrive within months
By John McCann Published
-
Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones could be on their way, and may have fixed last-gen's biggest problem
Official filings show a Bluetooth boost and what looks like a significant design change
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
Sony’s next-gen affordable earbuds have leaked, and the difference is clear
The successor to the Sony WF-C700N has turned up in an official database with a very un-Sony design
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
I'm finally playing a game that makes my PS5 Pro feel worth it
Kingdom Come: Deliverance II is a visual powerhouse
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
Microsoft wants to ditch Windows for future Xbox gaming handhelds
Xbox’s console operating system could shape how we use future handhelds
By John McCann Published