Sony Considers Delaying PlayStation 6 to 2028-2029 as AI Boom Drives Memory Chip Demand

Sony is reportedly considering pushing back the debut of its next PlayStation console to 2028 or even 2029, according to sources familiar with the matter. The delay stems from the AI boom fueling massive demand for memory chips, creating supply constraints that could impact Sony's ability to secure necessary components for its next-generation gaming system.

The potential delay represents a significant shift in the gaming industry's traditional console release cycle. Sony's PlayStation consoles have historically launched on predictable schedules, with the PlayStation 5 debuting in November 2020. A delay of two to three years would mark an unprecedented move for the company and could have ripple effects across the entire gaming ecosystem.

AI Boom Creates Memory Chip Shortage

The root cause of Sony's consideration lies in the explosive growth of artificial intelligence applications. Tech industry leaders including Elon Musk and Tim Cook have warned about a global crisis in the making as AI development drives unprecedented demand for high-performance memory chips. These same components are essential for next-generation gaming consoles, creating a competitive bottleneck.

Memory chip prices have jumped 600%+ over the past year for routers and set-top boxes, according to Counterpoint Research, highlighting the severity of the supply constraints. This price surge directly impacts console manufacturers who rely on these components for their systems.

Industry-Wide Impact

The potential delay could force other console manufacturers to reconsider their own release schedules. Microsoft's Xbox Series X|S launched alongside the PlayStation 5 in 2020, and both companies have traditionally maintained competitive release timing to avoid giving rivals a significant market advantage.

Gaming developers and publishers would also need to adjust their strategies. Many studios plan their development cycles around expected console release dates, and a delay could impact game development timelines and release strategies for major titles.

Financial Implications

Sony's gaming division has been a crucial revenue driver for the company, with the PlayStation 5 selling over 59.3 million units as of February 2025. Any delay in the next console could impact Sony's financial projections and market positioning against competitors.

The company would need to balance the risks of launching with potentially constrained supply against the benefits of waiting for more favorable component availability and potentially more advanced technology.

Market Context

This development comes as the gaming industry faces multiple challenges. The traditional console cycle has been disrupted by factors including supply chain issues, semiconductor shortages, and changing consumer behavior. The rise of cloud gaming and subscription services has also altered the competitive landscape.

Sony's consideration of a delay reflects the broader challenges facing the tech industry as AI development competes with consumer electronics for critical components. The situation underscores how advancements in one sector can create unexpected ripple effects across seemingly unrelated industries.

What's Next

Industry analysts will be watching closely for official confirmation from Sony regarding any potential delay. The company has historically been tight-lipped about future console plans until official announcements are ready.

If Sony does delay the PlayStation 6, it could signal a new era in console gaming where release schedules become more flexible and driven by component availability rather than predetermined timelines. This shift could fundamentally change how the gaming industry plans and executes its product strategies.

For now, PlayStation 5 owners can expect continued support and new game releases, while the gaming community awaits clarity on when the next generation of console gaming will arrive.