Following the PS5 Pro's launch, industry experts analyze its projected sales figures. Meanwhile, the new console reignites earlier speculation regarding a potential handheld device.
Analyst Forecasts for PS5 Pro Sales Despite Price Increase
Enhanced PS5 Pro Capabilities Fuel "PS5 Handheld" Speculation
Despite a significant price increase for the $700 PS5 Pro, analysts predict sales comparable to the PS4 Pro. Ampere Analysis' Piers Harding-Rolls notes the substantial price difference (40-50%) between the PS5 and PS5 Pro, exceeding the PS4 and PS4 Pro launch gap.
Ampere Analysis projects approximately 1.3 million PS5 Pro units sold during its November 2024 launch window – roughly 400,000 fewer than the PS4 Pro's initial launch sales in 2016. Harding-Rolls highlights the contrasting price differentials between the PS4 and PS4 Pro generations, emphasizing the potential impact on PS5 Pro demand. While acknowledging a potential dampening effect on sales due to price, he suggests that dedicated PlayStation fans will likely prioritize the purchase. Sony's PS4 Pro ultimately reached approximately 14.5 million units sold, representing around 12% of total PS4 sales, with an estimated 13 million unit sell-through within five years. Sell-through is defined as a consumer purchasing directly from a retailer.
Furthermore, PS5 lead architect Mark Cerny confirmed performance enhancements for PSVR2 games on the PS5 Pro. In a statement to CNET, Cerny highlighted the improved GPU's capacity for higher-resolution PSVR2 game outputs, although specific titles haven't been announced.
Cerny also confirmed compatibility with PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, the PS5 Pro's AI upscaling technology, for future PSVR2 applications. The PS5 Pro also boasts compatibility with other PS5 accessories, including the PS Portal remote player.
This PS Portal compatibility has fueled speculation about a potential new portable PlayStation console, echoing earlier rumors of a PS5 handheld. While unconfirmed, the PS5 Pro's advanced capabilities could signify a renewed focus on the handheld market.
