A few weeks back, I wrote about the very strong rumour that Sony are developing a new handheld console.
Fast forward to now and we have the gaming world is buzzing again with even more rock sollid reports of Sony working on a new handheld console capable of locally playing PS5 games.
First revealed by Bloomberg, this exciting rumor has now gained credibility with Digital Foundry backing the claims. But as with all things Sony, this potential project is shrouded in speculation and uncertainty.
What We Know So Far
Bloomberg’s initial report sparked intrigue, suggesting that Sony is actively developing a handheld device designed to play PS5 games locally. Digital Foundry’s John Linneman, a trusted voice in gaming tech, has since confirmed that his team heard whispers of this project long before Bloomberg’s report.
While Digital Foundry typically refrains from sharing unverified leaks, Linneman explained, “We’re not in the business of leaking things.” Now that the information is public, he’s added a fresh perspective to the conversation, hinting that this new handheld might still be years away from release.
Could Sony’s History Be Repeating Itself?
Sony is no stranger to taking its time with gaming hardware. The PlayStation Portal, Sony’s current game-streaming handheld, was years in the making. Patents suggest development began as far back as 2017, but the Portal didn’t hit shelves until 2023.
Given this track record, it’s likely the new handheld is still in its early stages. According to Linneman, early prototypes may already exist, but a full release during the PS5’s lifecycle seems unlikely. This means gamers might have to wait for the next console generation before getting their hands on this rumored device.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
While the idea of a standalone PlayStation handheld capable of local PS5 gaming sounds incredible, the reality is more complicated. Optimizing PS5 games for a lower-power device poses significant technical challenges. Even more crucial is developer support, which will make or break the handheld’s success.
Sony’s history offers another reason to temper expectations. The PlayStation Portal was initially rumored to be a standalone device like the Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch. But when it launched, it was revealed to be a PS5 game-streaming device instead. Could this new handheld take a similar turn and end up as a successor to the Portal?
Adding to the uncertainty, Bloomberg noted that Sony could cancel the project entirely before it reaches the market. If technical hurdles or a lack of developer enthusiasm prove too significant, this handheld might never see the light of day.
A Glimpse Into the Future
While the PlayStation community would love to see a new handheld console that bridges the gap between Sony’s iconic gaming history and the modern era of portable gaming, the reality remains unclear. The PS Vita, Sony’s last true handheld console, still has a dedicated fanbase to this day, and a proper successor has long been a dream for many fans.
For now, all eyes are on Sony to see if this rumored handheld evolves into something revolutionary—or if it quietly fades into obscurity, much like other ambitious gaming projects before it.
Whether it’s a game-changer or a ghost of a rumor, the potential of a PlayStation handheld capable of local PS5 gaming is enough to keep the gaming world buzzing. And for now, that’s more than enough to stoke the fires of anticipation.
