- PlayStation is expected to return to the handheld market during the next generation.
- This generation could also mark Xbox’s first entry into the market.
- According to rumors, both gaming giants will compete fiercely in this segment for the first time.
Handheld gaming has grown exponentially after Nintendo reinvented the market with the hybrid concept. Today, the Steam Deck, Rog Ally, and more compete in this segment, offering unique perks for those looking to game on the go.
Following this success, PlayStation, which once had a massive presence in the market, is reportedly returning. With Xbox also rumored to be releasing a handheld, both gaming giants are set to embark on the creation of next-gen portable systems.
Why it matters: This push could lead to a bigger focus on unique gaming experiences instead of the typical high-budget AAA games seen in the industry.
According to recent reports, Xbox’s next-gen handheld will take inspiration from the Nintendo Switch.
Therefore, it would serve as complementary hardware to the home console, offering a docking feature. This would mark Microsoft’s first entry into the market, making it an exciting proposition.
Meanwhile, leaks suggest PlayStation has been working on a handheld. This will see the gaming giant teaming up with AMD again, making it capable of playing PS4 and PS5 games, though the latter would depend on the developers.
Leaked specs point to 18 AMD RDNA CUs at 1.8GHz for the handheld, but not much else is known about Sony’s ambitions. Nonetheless, it seems both PlayStation and Xbox are headed toward an exciting direction for the future.
Sony might have an edge over Microsoft due to its experience in the market. However, Microsoft has worked with tablet-like products before, so it won’t be completely clueless.
MSI has also confirmed a new gaming handheld, adding more competition to this segment. Overall, it seems the industry will soon be shaken by new companies looking to experiment with gaming on the go.
Still, these handhelds are expected to be in the conception phase for now. Xbox is expected to transition to its next generation in 2026, while PlayStation is unlikely to move on from the PS5 before 2028.
This should also allow handheld SoCs to further bridge the gap between desktop parts, making them more capable of running fully-fledged games by the time the next generation arrives.
Featured Image Credit: TCMF
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[News Reporter]
Abiyan is on track to complete his Computer Science bachelor’s degree. His enthusiasm for writing and gaming motivates him to keep readers and gamers updated with the latest information from the industry. In his free time, Abiyan enjoys playing Dota 2 and Rocket League. Abiyan has also been cited in reputed websites such as Kitguru, Comicbook, GamingBible, Eurogamer and Gamingbolt.
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