Katarzyna Petru
PlayStation fans can breathe a sigh of relief — Sony finally has a real reason to celebrate. The latest sales figures show that PlayStation Portal — a device that initially received a lukewarm reception — has achieved huge success. Moreover, this success could directly influence the company's decision to create a fully-fledged, portable PlayStation 6 console.
Portal that opened new doors
When Sony unveiled the PlayStation Portal in 2023, many gamers deemed it "too limited." The device only worked in conjunction with the PS5, which meant it could not be considered an independent console. It was only after a later update — allowing gameplay of selected titles from the PS+ library without a connection to the home console — that everything changed.
This was a turning point. The portal gained a second life and quickly became one of the most popular accessories in the PlayStation ecosystem. According to market analyses, over 5% of all PS5 owners also purchased the Portal, viewing it as a "miniature" version of their console.
Sony finally sees potential in handhelds
This is an important change. A few years ago, it seemed that the era of portable consoles had passed irretrievably. The PlayStation Vita, despite its innovation, struggled in the market. However, the situation looks completely different now. The market for portable consoles is making a comeback, and with a bang. Nintendo's Switch 2 is selling brilliantly, and Microsoft — together with Asus — is developing the ROG Xbox Ally line, combining mobility with PC power. Sony does not intend to be left behind.
Portable PlayStation 6 on the way?
In industry circles, there is increasing talk that Sony along with AMD is working on a new generation portable device. It is said to be the handheld equivalent of PlayStation 6, using the same architecture and full support for AAA games. If the rumours are confirmed, PlayStation 6 could be the first console from Sony in history to be developed in two versions from the start — stationary and portable.
Success of the Portal is just the beginning
For Sony, this is the perfect moment. The portal has proven that players still want a mobile PlayStation, provided that it is well thought out and functional. Combining the lightness of a handheld with the power of PS6 could create a new market segment that only Nintendo and Microsoft have been competing for until now.
Will 2027 bring a double premiere?
More and more suggests that PlayStation 6 will debut in 2027, and in its shadow, a smaller, portable counterpart will also appear. Both devices are expected to utilise AMD chips, support Ray Tracing and full HDR, as well as offer game streaming from the PlayStation cloud.
Sony, after years of hesitation, might once again take a risk. And it looks like this time players are ready.
