Sony Is Rumored to Be Working on a PlayStation 6 Handheld, and I Really Hope It’s Not True

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For over three decades, Sony has been a major player in gaming, and the PlayStation has become one of the industry’s most popular brands. The PS5 continues this success, offering more power and wider game compatibility than its rivals. Although the PS6 is still some time off, Sony is currently in a strong position and could easily rely on its existing achievements.

Although Sony hasn’t officially announced anything, reports suggest they’re developing a new console, possibly with a handheld component. This could be similar to the Nintendo Switch, allowing PlayStation to re-enter the mobile gaming space. While a portable PlayStation sounds exciting, I hope these rumors aren’t true. Sony is currently a leader in home console gaming, and I’d hate to see them shift focus away from that strength.

What We Know About The Rumored PlayStation 6 Handheld

There are reports that Sony is developing a handheld PlayStation 6, and many hope this isn’t true. Rumors have been circulating for some time suggesting Sony is planning a return to handheld gaming, after previously stopping production of the PSP. According to leaks and information from those familiar with Sony’s plans, the company is working on two PS6 devices: a traditional home console and a portable handheld version.

Rumors indicate the upcoming PS6 Handheld will be significantly more powerful than the Switch 2 and Xbox ROG Ally X. Some sources claim it could be three times faster than the Switch 2 when connected to a TV. Leaks suggest it will have up to 48GB of RAM and a powerful graphics processor capable of running at 1.20GHz in handheld mode. It’s also expected to run games more efficiently than the ROG Ally X, potentially giving it a competitive advantage.

There’s talk that this new device could play older games from both the PS4 and PS5, giving players a huge selection of titles to choose from. A portable PS6 sounds appealing, particularly since more and more people are playing games remotely or while traveling. However, there are several reasons why Sony might not want to go down this path.

Why PlayStation Doesn’t Need To Reenter The Mobile Gaming Wars

The PlayStation 5 is currently leading the console market, but its position isn’t guaranteed. Nintendo’s Switch 2 is selling well and has established itself as a strong competitor, offering the unique benefit of both home and handheld gaming. While the Switch 2 doesn’t have the same raw power as the PS5, the Xbox Series X/S has been facing challenges, which has allowed the PlayStation 5 to strengthen its position as the go-to console for powerful gaming experiences. This is a familiar place for PlayStation, a brand that has consistently led the market for many years.

Sony’s previous attempt with the PSP shows how difficult it is for them to compete with Nintendo in the handheld gaming market, and a new mobile PlayStation – like a PS6 – would likely face the same hurdles. The competition is tougher now too, as the Steam Deck has already become a successful alternative to Nintendo, and its game selection could be larger than anything Sony could offer. While the PS5 (and future PS6) will compete with devices like the Steam Deck, it’s on familiar ground – a traditional console battle. But entering the mobile gaming space again would be a much bigger challenge for Sony.

As a PlayStation fan, I’m really starting to worry about the PS6. It feels like the gaming world is now all about mobile, and a new handheld PlayStation would have a seriously tough time competing. Plus, making consoles is getting way more expensive – things like tariffs and parts shortages are really driving up the costs. That’s a big reason why I think the PS6 is further off than we all expect. If they did make a portable version, it would probably be super pricey, and we’d definitely pay for it. Honestly, I think Sony might be smart to focus all their energy and resources on making a powerful home console. If they don’t try to also make it a handheld, it could actually help keep the price down for everyone.

Instead of trying to compete with Nintendo and Valve in the handheld market, Sony should concentrate on building the best possible home console – one that surpasses even the Steam Machine. PlayStation has become the leading home console in recent years, and attempting to re-enter the handheld market feels like a misstep. While a portable PS6 would be technically impressive and potentially popular, it’s a risky venture that neither players nor Sony needs to pursue.

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2026-02-06 20:11