

A new rumour suggests that Sony and Microsoft are currently testing new PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X consoles that will be seen as a mid-gen upgrade.
This came to light by known Rockstar insider Tez2 (via GTA Forums), who responded to whether a GTA 6 bundle with a new PS5 Slim could release in the near future. This then prompted the claim that: "Most AAA studios should have received the dev kits of mid-life upgrades or should receive them by the start of new year".
Both Sony and Microsoft have a history of releasing upgrades a few years into their console's lifecycles. In fact, during the last generation, the PS4 launched in November 2013 before receiving a slim model in September 2016 and a PS4 Pro in November 2016.
Likewise, the Xbox One was released in November 2013 and then followed by the Xbox One S in August 2016, the Xbox One X in November 2017 and finally, the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition in May 2019. As the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S hit retailers in November 2020, a 2023 release date would fit the timescale shown here. That said, a global pandemic happened, likely pushing things back. With this in mind, a 2024 release window seems more probable, however, that's purely speculation.
The first report of a new PS5 and Xbox model being in development was made earlier this year by Chinese electronics company TCL. The company stated the supposed existence of the consoles during a presentation, where it was mentioned that both will feature 8K support and 120hz capabilities. A 2023/2024 release date was further noted.
In the meantime, Sony is poised to launch its PSVR 2 headset in early 2023 and will additionally begin to ship God of War Ragnarok PS5 bundles in November this year. Microsoft, on the other hand, has been teasing a new streaming-only console with Xbox chief Phil Spencer posting an image to social media that fuelled speculation.
Still looking for a PS5? Head to T3's PS5 restock tracker for the latest details and how to get one before the chaos of Black Friday.
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Matt is a freelance writer for T3, covering news and keeping up with everything games, entertainment, and all manner of tech. You can find his work across numerous sites across the web, including TechRadar, IGN, GamesRadar, Tom's Guide, Fandom, NME, and more. In his spare time, Matt is an avid cinema-goer, keen runner and average golfer (at best). You can follow him @MattPoskitt64
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