Sony Flags 93.7 Million PS5 Sales, Weighs PS6 Delay as AI Memory Shortage Bites
Updated
Updated · Eurogamer.net · May 20
Sony Flags 93.7 Million PS5 Sales, Weighs PS6 Delay as AI Memory Shortage Bites
2 articles · Updated · Eurogamer.net · May 20
Sony said PS5 hardware sales will fall in FY26 as AI-driven memory shortages constrain supply, with CEO Hiroki Totoki warning the pressure could last into 2027.
That squeeze is also clouding PS6 timing and pricing: Sony said launch plans are still undecided, and analysts see a 2028 window as preferable to a supply-constrained debut.
Sony is signaling it may underproduce consoles rather than absorb higher component costs, raising the prospect of further price increases and more cross-generation releases from major first-party studios.
Possible model changes include installment financing or a two-tier PS6 lineup, while GTA 6 remains a wildcard that could lift PS5 demand above Sony's cautious forecast if supply is available.
Despite the hardware headwinds, PlayStation remains profitable and mature, with cumulative PS5 sales at 93.7 million and Sony highlighting AI uses from a Bandai Namco pilot to $700 million in payment-routing revenue.
As AI drives up costs, will GTA 6's release on PS5 create a gaming market only for the wealthy?
With AI consuming global chip supply, is the era of affordable high-end gaming hardware ending?
Is Sony's cross-gen strategy a smart pivot or the end of what makes PlayStation special?
AI-Fueled RAM Shortage Pushes PS6 Launch to 2028–2029, Reshapes Console Market and Sony’s Strategy
Overview
The PlayStation 5 is facing a challenging period as rising hardware prices and broader industry issues, such as layoffs and studio closures, put pressure on sales and market share. Higher console prices are making it harder for consumers to access new hardware, which could further impact PS5’s position in the market. Despite these headwinds, the PS5 continues to show strong user engagement, with a high percentage of daily active users. However, the prospect of further price increases, similar to moves by Nintendo, signals ongoing margin pressure for Sony and highlights the tough environment for console makers in 2026.