The anticipated launch of the PlayStation 6 (PS6) may be delayed until 2028 or 2029 due to a significant shortage of AI chips affecting the gaming industry. As demand for these chips continues to rise, companies like Sony are reassessing their release schedules to cope with the ongoing supply chain disruptions.
According to a report by CNBC, the global memory chip shortage is primarily driven by the increasing demand from tech giants like Nvidia and Google. These companies have been acquiring memory chips in large quantities, which has left console manufacturers struggling to secure sufficient supplies for their products. The impact of this shortage is far-reaching, affecting production costs and timelines for the PS6.
Potential Impact on Console Lifecycle
The new release window of 2028 or 2029 represents a notable shift from Sony’s typical 6-7 year console cycle. If these delays materialize, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) generation could become the longest in the company’s history. A report from January indicated that the PS6 launch might extend beyond 2028, further lengthening the PS5’s lifecycle.
Senior analyst David Gibson from MST International noted that while existing inventory may provide some buffer against immediate impacts from rising memory prices, the situation could worsen in the next fiscal year, which ends in March 2027. Gibson stated that increased memory costs could prompt Sony to raise prices for consumers in the future.
Strategic Responses from Sony
In response to these challenges, Lin Tao, Sony’s chief financial officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to negotiating with suppliers to ensure adequate supply to meet customer demand. “Going forward, we intend to further negotiate with various suppliers to secure enough supply to meet the demand of our customers,” he explained.
As Sony navigates this complex landscape, it is not alone in facing potential price adjustments. Reports suggest that Nintendo is also considering a price increase for its upcoming Switch 2, highlighting the broader impact of supply shortages across the gaming industry.
While both companies have yet to issue official statements regarding their plans, the evolving situation underscores the significant challenges posed by the global semiconductor crisis. As fans await the next generation of gaming consoles, the industry remains in a state of uncertainty, with the timeline for the PS6’s release now dependent on resolving these critical supply issues.
