Sony is conducting research that could potentially develop a next PlayStation portable or the PS6. The Nintendo Switch 2 announcement shook the market with high-priced games and rigorous pre-order conditions. A leaked survey surveyed PlayStation players for their thoughts on the console.
Competitor research is vital for any sales plan. Consoles are no exception, with a PlayStation survey centered on the Nintendo Switch 2 announcement. The well-known leaker eXtas1s released a copy of the questionnaire on X. Sony inquired as to which Switch 2 specifications users are interested in, as well as whether they agree of Nintendo's preorder strategy. There is conjecture that the survey will have an impact on a forthcoming PlayStation handheld.
Some of Sony's inquiries reflect general curiosity in Nintendo's impending handheld. Others are trying to figure out which new Switch 2 features will entice gamers to switch to the PlayStation rival. The study also addresses the pre-order requirements for reserving a system from Nintendo. Buyers must register on the company's website, with priority granted to long-term Nintendo Switch Online users. Scalpers have been a problem for many console makers, and Sony may be adopting a similar method in the future.
The gaming portable market has become more competitive. Microsoft has shifted to become a cross-platform publisher, but it hasn't abandoned hardware. Asus has teased Project Kennan, a Windows handheld that potentially feature an Xbox UI. Sony has the PlayStation Portal, which focuses on streaming PS5 titles and cloud gaming. Some gamers feel the study confirms speculations of a new PlayStation portable.
Sony's PS6 could be released as early as 2027, if the timing of previous major system releases is followed. However, most analysts predict the technology will not be transferable. However, Bloomberg disclosed in November 2024 that Sony was also building a portable. In a tiny size factor, the machine would provide a gaming experience similar to the PlayStation 5.
Any new PlayStation handheld is unlikely to be released for several years, giving Nintendo and Microsoft an advantage by then. Still, the recent Switch 2 announcement survey may help Sony avoid the mistakes of previous system launches.
Sources: eXtas1s X account, Bloomberg