Following the recent PS5 Pro launch, analysts offer insights into its projected sales figures. Meanwhile, the new console reignites earlier speculation about a potential PlayStation handheld.
Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase
Enhanced PS5 Pro Capabilities Fuel "PS5 Handheld" Speculation
Despite its $700 price tag, the PS5 Pro is predicted to achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, according to industry analysts. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls noted the significant price difference between the PS5 and PS5 Pro (40-50%), considerably higher than the PS4 and PS4 Pro launch gap.
Ampere Analysis forecasts around 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch, approximately 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls highlighted the price disparity, stating that while it might dampen demand, PlayStation enthusiasts are less price-sensitive. Sony sold approximately 14.5 million PS4 Pro units, representing about 12% of total PS4 sales, with an estimated 13 million unit sell-through* within five years. Sell-through* refers to direct consumer purchases from retailers.
Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed that the PS5 Pro will enhance PSVR2 gaming performance. In a statement to CNET, Cerny indicated that the improved GPU will allow for higher resolutions in PSVR2 games, though specific titles haven't been named.
Cerny also mentioned the PS5 Pro's AI-assisted upscaling, PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro also supports other PS5 accessories, including the PS Portal.
This PS Portal compatibility, coupled with past rumors of a portable PlayStation console capable of running PS5 games, has renewed speculation about a potential handheld device. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could pave the way for a new PlayStation handheld.
