Key Takeaways
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- Next-Gen Handheld Console: Sony is developing a handheld device called Canis, which is capable of running native games and is part of the PS6 ecosystem with full backward compatibility for all games released on the PS4 and PS5.
- Increased Power and Cost Efficiency: The Canis, powered by AMDs RDNA 5 architecture, is expected to be more powerful than the PS5 while having lower production costs. The processor for the portable console is estimated to cost Sony just $46.80 compared to approximately $81.50 for the current PS5 chip.
- Multiple Models: The PlayStation 6 may launch with three distinct models: a high-end version (Orion), a lite model (PS6 S or PS6 Lite), and a handheld version (Canis). The Orion is rumored to offer around three times the rasterization power of the PS5.
- AI-Driven Features: Future technologies confirmed for the PS6, such as AI-driven features through Project Amethyst, are expected to enable innovations in both AMD and Sonys respective AI and upscaling technologies (FSR and PSSR). These technologies could potentially save power, making them suitable for a next-generation PlayStation Handheld.
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Following the PlayStation Portal’s release, a significant leak of internal AMD documents has revealed Sony’s plans for the next generation of PlayStation, including a dedicated handheld device called “Canis.” This device may fulfill the desires of many gamers for a truly portable console capable of running native games. According to the leaked documents, initially reported by Moore’s Law Is Dead, the Canis is being developed using AMD’s new RDNA 5 architecture. The new handheld is reportedly more powerful than the PS5, yet Sony’s production costs are expected to be lower. The processor (APU) for this portable console is estimated to cost Sony just $46.80, in contrast to the current PS5 chip (in its reduced version), which costs approximately $81.50. The AMD documentation also indicates that the Canis will be an integral part of the PS6 ecosystem, with full backward compatibility for all games released on the PS4 and PS5. Addressing battery life concerns, AMD is reportedly creating a dedicated low-power mode for multimedia and video playback. This optimization would conserve battery power when players are not running demanding games, extending playtime on the go.
The PlayStation 6 is projected to launch between 2027 and 2028, potentially with three distinct models: a high-end version, a “lite” model, and a handheld. Orion: The high-end version is rumored to feature an AMD Zen 6 CPU and RDNA 5 GPU, delivering around three times the rasterization power of the PS5. The Orion-based console may come in two versions, similar to the initial PS5 launch, offering a choice between a disc-based and a digital-only console. PS6 S: A “lite” model running on a slightly toned-down Canis chipset. Canis: The handheld version will also use the Canis architecture, designed to play games natively. However, in August 2025, tech expert KeplerL2 suggested that the PS6 Handheld could offer less power than the current-generation PS5 console. The projected price ranges for the upcoming PlayStation consoles are as follows: The PS6 Lite (or S) may cost between $349 and $549; the handheld version between $499 and $699; and the full PS6 console between $699 and $999.
Next-Gen PlayStation Handheld with AI-Driven Tech and Upscaling Performance on the Horizon
Bloomberg’s Takashi Mochizuki reported in November 2024 that Sony has been developing a handheld PlayStation capable of playing native PS5 games. Further, Mark Cerny has indicated that future technologies confirmed for the PS6 include AI-driven features, thanks to a collaboration with AMD through Project Amethyst to innovate their respective AI and upscaling technologies (FSR and PSSR). Cerny also suggested these new PS6-level technologies could enable a next-generation PlayStation Handheld because of their power-saving potential. It is also rumored that Sony’s next-generation consoles might not include a disc drive by default, requiring users to purchase an optional drive separately. These leaked details and expert insights provide a glimpse into Sony’s potential vision for the PlayStation 6 and a dedicated handheld gaming experience.
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Links to external sources for further reading
- 10th gen PlayStation 6 hardware price estimates10th gen PlayStation 6 hardware price estimatesgameshub.com
- The PS6 Hardware Lineup: Base, Lite, and HandheldThe PS6 Hardware Lineup: Base, Lite, and Handheldgamermarkt.com
- What's coming?What's coming?tweaktown.com