Despite mixed initial reactions, the PS5 Pro's sales projections remain strong, according to industry analysts. The new console's features also fuel speculation about a potential future handheld device.
Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales, Despite Price Increase
PS5 Pro's Enhanced Capabilities Spark Renewed Interest in a Handheld PlayStation
The recently launched $700 PS5 Pro is predicted to achieve sales comparable to the PS4 Pro, even with its higher price tag. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls noted the significant price difference between the standard PS5 and the Pro model, exceeding that of its PS4 predecessors.
Ampere Analysis estimates approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window – around 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls highlighted the price disparity between the PS4 and PS4 Pro at launch, emphasizing that the PS5 Pro's higher price could dampen demand, but that this may be less of a concern for dedicated PlayStation fans. Sony's PS4 Pro ultimately sold approximately 14.5 million units. Ampere Analysis projects that the PS4 Pro accounted for roughly 12% of total PS4 sales, with an estimated 13 million units sold over five years. Sell-through, as defined, 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 explained that the upgraded GPU will allow for higher resolutions in PSVR2 games, though specific titles haven't been confirmed yet. He also mentioned that the PS5 Pro's PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (AI-assisted upscaling) will be compatible with PSVR2. The PS5 Pro is also designed to work with existing PS5 accessories like the PS Portal.
This PS Portal compatibility, coupled with earlier rumors of a portable PlayStation console capable of running PS5 games, has reignited speculation about a new handheld device. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could significantly influence the development of a future PlayStation handheld.
