Sony has unveiled the latest generation in its console gaming line, with a slimmed-down and stripped-back version of the PlayStation 5.
The new model features a smaller and lighter form factor, as well as a detachable disk drive and one terabyte of additional memory for storage.
The PS5 ‘Slim’ will first be available in the US before rolling out to other locations.
The new model will retail at £479.99 in the UK ($499.99 in the US), while the Digital Edition, which does not include the disk drive, will retail at £389.99 ($449.99 in the US).
Best of all, there’s not long to wait to get your hands on it – here’s everything you need to know.
Sony has unveiled the latest generation in its console gaming line, with a slimmed-down and stripped-back version of the PlayStation 5
The new PS5 will include a detachable disk drive that can either be purchased as part of the console or bought separately and attached later
The new model is significantly smaller than the previous generation, bringing a 30 per cent reduction in volume and an 18 or 24 per cent reduction in weight depending on the edition.
For those who purchase the digital edition, there will be an option to upgrade to the standard edition by attaching the separate disk drive, which will cost £99 in the UK and $79.99 in the US.
Sony has announced that this model is intended to replace the previous version, meaning that once the remaining consoles of the last generation have been sold no more will be produced.
In a blog post, Sid Shuman, Senior Director of SIE Content Communications for Sony, said: ‘Once inventory of the current PS5 model has sold out, the new PS5 will become the only model available.’
Beyond the size reduction, the overall design of the console remains much the same as previous versions.
Mr Shuman added: ‘There are four separate cover panels, with the top portion in a glossy look, while the bottom remains in matte.’
The consoles now feature clear slits on either side between the panes and dual USB-C ports at the front rather than the single USB-C and USB-A ports on the previous model.
The previous model of the PS5 was often criticized for its size at 15.3in x 10.2in x 4in (39cm x 26cm x 10.4cm) – making the new slimmer version an appealing choice
New side panels and rearranged USB ports are part of the upgrade, with coloured panels set for release in 2024
In a side by side comparison the size difference between the old and new versions is clear, as the newer version is just over one inch (3cm) shorter
Detachable panels in alternative colours will be available from early 2024, including a matte Black colourway and the Deep Earth Collection colours in Volcanic Red, Cobalt Blue, and Sterling Silver.
These panels will be priced at £44.99 in the UK and $54.99 in the US.
While additional storage is optional, both of the new editions include 1TB of storage as standard – an increase from the 825GB available on the older version.
The new model will ship with a horizontal stand, but a vertical stand will also be available for purchase separately at £24.99 in the UK and $29.99 in the US.
This release comes months after the early design for the PS5 was leaked by rival Microsoft.
In filings dated June 22, Microsoft claimed that Sony ‘is expected to release a PlayStation 5 Slim later this year at the same reduced price point’ as its ‘less expensive Digital Edition for $399.99.’
The new version of the PlayStation 5 will go on sale in November.
