In 2023, the console that has been available since November 2020 (and has become more expensive since then) could undergo a significant hardware overhaul.

The PlayStation 5 has already undergone at least two minimal hardware revisions (both of which we’ve written about). Still, externally, you wouldn’t notice that the internal fan size has changed, for example. We’d have to think of a more considerable change than that if we’re to believe Tom Henderson, who spoke on Insider-Gaming about the possibility of a genuinely new PlayStation 5 model being planned by Sony (who needs to get their reputation back on track, because even though they justify the €50 price increase on the PlayStation 5 on the grounds of inflation, they haven’t had the guts to push the price of the console up in America).

According to Henderson, the new version of the PlayStation 5 will be called ‘D chassis’ internally, and the three previous models will have the first three letters of the English alphabet (A, B, C). So far, so straightforward. But Henderson highlighted what could be a big difference: the Blu-ray drive will reportedly be detachable, which could simplify Sony’s manufacturing process, as there are currently two SKUs (versions) of the PlayStation 5, as the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition does not come with an optical drive, while the PlayStation 5 Standard Edition does. Supposedly, this new version would replace the two models that are (not?) available in stores.

The detachable Blu-ray drive would connect via the USB-C port on the back of the console, and it would not detract from the aesthetics of the new PlayStation 5. There will be bundles that include the drive, and it will also be available to buy separately, so gamers can choose to rely on the PlayStation Store, or gamers who are thrifty with second-hand games may prefer to invest in an optical drive.

Henderson says this new PlayStation 5 model could launch in around a year, in September 2023. It is not official, but it is understandable what the plan is: it would allow Sony to produce the single-model console more cheaply, and there would be fewer logistical mishaps; for example, the HD DVD drive was a similar experiment with the Xbox 360, and Microsoft failed with it. Is it a good idea?

Source: WCCFTech