Sony Planning Multi-Device Strategy for Next-Gen PlayStation

Sony is reportedly planning a multi-device approach for its next generation of PlayStation hardware, according to a leak reported by The Express Tribune. The report suggests that the company may launch three different models of the PlayStation 6, which would include a handheld version and a lite version.

This potential hardware expansion aligns with broader corporate goals to evolve the PlayStation experience. According to a Sony Group business segment presentation, the company aims to build a strong, multi-device ecosystem to drive consistent revenue from peripherals, services, and content while maintaining record levels of engagement and spend per device.

Handheld Integration and Hardware Strategy

The prospect of a handheld device marks a significant shift in Sony’s hardware trajectory. Reports citing Bloomberg indicate that Sony may return to the handheld market with a new portable PlayStation designed to play PlayStation 5 games on the go.

This hardware diversification is part of a wider strategy described by Sony Interactive Entertainment president and CEO Hideaki Nishino as the console and beyond. During a business update on June 13, 2025, Nishino clarified that this approach includes not only consoles but also PlayStation peripherals, such as the PlayStation Portal, and the release of games on PC.

Nishino specified that Sony does not employ a multi-platform release strategy, as PlayStation games typically do not launch on Nintendo or Xbox consoles. Instead, the company views its practice of releasing titles on its own consoles and subsequently on PC as a multi-device strategy intended to capture a wider audience.

Release Timelines and Production Goals

While leaks suggest a variety of upcoming models, the timeline for the next-generation console may be extending. A report from February 16, 2026, citing Bloomberg sources, indicates that Sony Group Corp. Is considering pushing the debut of its next PlayStation console back to 2028 or 2029.

Despite these potential delays in hardware launches, Sony is maintaining its software production cadence. Hideaki Nishino stated on June 13, 2025, that the company will continue its business strategy of releasing at least one AAA story-based single-player game every year.

The current PlayStation 5 generation is regarded by the company as its most successful and profitable generation to date. Sony intends to leverage this momentum by continuing to invest in key innovation areas and managing its cost structure to drive profitable growth.

Expanding the PlayStation Ecosystem

Beyond hardware and software, Sony is pursuing a strategy to adapt its game properties into other mediums. This includes the development of anime, movies, and television shows based on PlayStation intellectual property.

The company’s current operational focus includes several key pillars to sustain its growth:

• Driving record levels of engagement and spending per device.
• Generating consistent revenue through content, services, and peripherals.
• Expanding the reach of AAA titles by bringing them to PC at least one year after their initial console release.
• Investing in innovation to evolve the overall user experience.