When you compare PCs to this generation of consoles the biggest difference between them is their power. When the PS4 and Xbox One came out they were roughly as good as PCs of the day, but things change and when it comes to tech, things change fast. With the way the industry is going the standard 7-10 year console life cycle might put consoles too far behind the curve. So is the answer to release updated versions of the consoles with better graphics and a new GPU? Kotaku’s sources say that is exactly what Sony is doing.
First we have to say that this is strictly a rumor, but if this new PS4, called the “PS4.5” or “PS4K”, is in development it would have more power and the ability to output games in 4K resolution. Currently, the PS4 can only display images and video in 4K. With the extra power the “PS4K” would provide, the PlayStation VR would be more in line with the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift in terms of power.
Rumors began when one source informed Kotaku that Sony was in talks with developers about an upgrade PS4. This information was later confirmed when two other writers were able to independently verify the info. Another Kotaku writer also over heard two developers at GDC talking about the new PS4 calling it the “PS4.5” by name and referencing the increased power and 4K resolution. It’s nothing definitive but it does show that Sony is at least looking into mid-cycle console upgrades.
When Kotaku contacted Sony about the potential upgrade, a rep game them the usual boiler plate answer:
We can’t comment on rumors or speculation.
It’s unclear if Sony would offer a deal to those who have the current PS4 or if it will cost more than the current $350 price point. We will give you more information as it becomes available.
Speaking of Sony and PlayStation VR why not look into Sony’s new PlayStation VR launch bundle, pre-orders open tomorrow March 22nd.