Katarzyna Petru
According to reports from Insider Gaming, the upcoming PlayStation 6 will not completely abandon physical media. The console is set to receive a detachable disc drive, continuing the idea known from PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro.
Another path than Microsoft
While Microsoft has already abandoned drives in the new Xbox Series S and Series X models, Sony is going in the opposite direction. The Japanese company gives players a choice – they can buy a console with a drive, add it later, or even completely forgo physical media.
Reliable Leak
Renowned insider Tom Henderson, who previously accurately revealed the existence of a detachable drive in the PS5, claims that Sony is "determined" to transfer this solution to PlayStation 6. This means that the Japanese giant does not plan to transition exclusively to digital distribution, which would indeed be risky – especially as the company is currently facing a lawsuit regarding inflated prices in the PlayStation Store.
Rescue for Collectors and Film Buffs
Thanks to the drive, players will still be able to use Blu-ray and UHD Blu-ray discs – at a time when most electronics manufacturers are gradually phasing out players. This is important news for film collectors and fans of physical game editions.
However, there is a catch. The current detachable drive from the PS5 requires a constant internet connection to go through the authorisation process on Sony's servers. Officially, it is about protection against piracy, but the question arises – what will happen if the company someday shuts down those servers?
Premiere no earlier than 2027
PlayStation 6 is expected to feature a refreshed, slimmer design, with the launch planned for late 2027 or early 2028. It seems that the current generation will be with us for a few more good years.
