New rumors suggest a PlayStation 5 Pro could see a release in late 2023 or early 2024, with improved ray-tracing and double the performance of the still-hard-to-attain PS5. Every PlayStation console since the original has seen a redesign released, and last-gen's PS4 saw a slim version of the base console and an improved PS4 Pro that included enhanced hardware. Many newer games released today launch on both current and last-generation consoles, mainly because it is still incredibly difficult to find a new PS5 console at retail price.
Global supply shortages and tenacious scalpers are still preventing many people from purchasing their own PS5. Many of the parts used in creating Sony's newest console have continued to be challenging to produce worldwide thanks to supply problems and the global pandemic. As the issues continue across the tech sector, it's believed PS5 supply problems will continue through the year.
Several sources have fueled rumors that an alleged PS5 Pro will support around double the performance of the standard PS5, and may see a major focus on vastly improved ray-tracing features. As reported by Game Rant, the reliable gaming insider on the RedGamingTech YouTube channel suggests the new console could see a release as soon as late 2023 or sometime in early 2024. Previous leaks have hinted at a PS5 Pro, but Sony has yet to confirm the speculation. The video clarifies that some of these rumors could be false, as production plans often change. Similar rumors have also supported the existence of PlayStation 5 Slim which is also said to releasing in the same timeframe.
Regardless of supply issues, many gamers feel it is far too soon for an improved PS5. The PS4 Pro released three years after the original PS4 console, and a late 2023 release window for the PS5 Pro would be the same timeframe, as the PS5 launched in 2020. However, today's gaming environment is much different. Many game development studios are still recovering from the effects of the global pandemic, with lots of current-gen titles being delayed. With many of today's newest games being available on last-gen consoles, the excitement for the next generation of gaming has been slightly stifled.
A patent believed to be for a PS5 Pro emerged before the PS5 was released, which has helped bolster speculation. Sony's tactic to sell more consoles by releasing a Slim or Pro model with improved hardware has been an incredibly lucrative decision in the past. Because newer PS5 components have been so difficult to attain, Sony has been making more PS4s to keep console sales moving. However, newer games have begun to struggle performance-wise on older hardware, which is an issue that will only grow as games continue to evolve. Hopefully, Sony finds a way to defy expectations and manufacture enough PlayStation 5 Pro's, PS5 Slim's, and Standard PS5s to meet demand.
Sources: RedGamingTech/YouTube (via Game Rant)