Sony Developing Handheld Console to Compete with Nintendo Switch
- tech360.tv
- Nov 26, 2024
- 2 min read
Sony is developing a handheld console to play PS5 games on the go, aiming to compete with Nintendo's Switch. The portable device is inspired by Sony's PlayStation Portal and could make PS5 games more accessible to a wider audience. Nintendo's upcoming Switch successor is expected to maintain compatibility with existing titles, potentially driving upgrades.
This move is seen as an attempt by Sony to expand its market presence and challenge Nintendo Co. in the portable gaming sector. Sources familiar with the development have also mentioned that this initiative aims to rival any potential mobile devices from Microsoft Corp., which is also exploring similar prototypes.
While the portable device from Sony is still in its nascent phase, it is suggested that the company may choose not to bring it to market. The concept stems from the PlayStation Portal, an 8-inch handheld gadget introduced by Sony in 2023, enabling users to stream and play PS5 games online. Originally intended to be a standalone device like Valve Corp.'s Steam Deck, the Portal laid the groundwork for Sony's current handheld ambitions.
Creating a mobile device capable of directly running PS5 games could significantly broaden Sony's software accessibility and appeal to a wider audience. In recent times, Sony has been making strategic moves towards this goal, including a stronger focus on mobile and PC gaming, as well as live-service titles. However, a Sony spokeswoman has chosen not to provide any comments on this matter.
The gaming industry's revenue is largely driven by mobile gaming, with smartphones dominating the market. Nintendo's Switch console has successfully carved out a niche by offering the flexibility of both portable and TV-connected gameplay. With the anticipated release of its successor in 2025, Nintendo aims to maintain compatibility with its existing game library, potentially prompting users of the current console to upgrade.
Sony and Microsoft have been absent from the portable gaming hardware competition for years, following the discontinuation of products like the PS Vita and PlayStation Portable a decade ago.
Sony is developing a handheld console to play PS5 games on the go, aiming to compete with Nintendo's Switch.
The portable device is inspired by Sony's PlayStation Portal and could make PS5 games more accessible to a wider audience.
Nintendo's upcoming Switch successor is expected to maintain compatibility with existing titles, potentially driving upgrades.
Source: NeoGAF
