Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) announced the launch of two new PlayStation 4 console at the PlayStation Theatre in New York City on 7th September 2016. The PS4 Pro model is a more powerful version of its original PS4 model and the new hardware will support 4K and High Dynamic Range (HDR) technologies. In addition, PlayStation 4 Pro provides the ultimate gaming experience on the PlayStation VR (PSVR), with faster frame rates, and intense graphics which will deliver better performance compared to the current PS4 console. Sony will start shipping PS VR hardware from next month and the PS4 Pro will be available from November 10, 2016 for $399.
Sony also announced a slimmer version of its base PS4 hardware, which will be available in Japan, North America, and Europe starting from September 15, 2016, at a retail price (MSRP) of 29,980 yen, $299 USD, €299 and £259.
A firmware upgrade will also be released soon to enable all currently installed PS4 models HDR (High Dynamic Range) capable as well, although of course owners will also need to have an HDR capable TV if they want to enjoy the full benefits of the consoles HDR capabilities.
This is the first time in PlayStation’s history that the company will have two consoles on sale with significantly different graphics capabilities within the same generation. The PlayStation Pro is likely to appeal to hardcore gamers who value having the best technology available and clearly Sony hopes that existing PS4 owners will be tempted to upgrade earlier than they have done in the past. The slimmer PS4 will become the base PS4 model and the reduced price should ensure that existing PS3 owners continue to upgrade to the PS4 platform.
Sony’s PS4 has been the best selling console of the current generation and Strategy Analytics estimates that by the end of August 2016, 46 million PlayStation 4 consoles have been shipped globally.
Strategy Analytics’ Connected Home Devices service provides detailed forecasts for the games hardware market and will be publishing a more detailed insight on the implications of Sony’s announcement in due course. Check out our upcoming Webinar on 14th September: Industry Impact of Virtual Reality Register / Click here