PS5 will include SSD, PSVR support, PS4 backwards compatibility, 8K output

Sony has just revealed the first details for its next-generation console. Here’s what we know so far.

In exclusive article published on Wired, Sony confirmed that the PS5 will include a solid state drive (SSD), which should dramatically improve loading times in games. We do not yet know the size of the drive – and that detail is important, given the ever-expanding size of games and updates – but the news is welcome nonetheless.

Next, we learned that the PS5 will support backwards compatibility with PS4 games. That is possible, in part, because the PS5 will still be a disc-based system. Sony wants to have a “gentle” transition with games being released on both platforms once the PS5 launches – which, by the way, will not be in 2019. Does that mean that PS4 digital purchases will transfer over to PS5? Good question. We don’t yet know.

Sony also intends to continue support for PlayStation VR. PSVR sets that consumers purchased for their PS4s will be compatible with the PS5. This makes a great deal of sense, as it gives Sony a large PSVR install base right out of the gate. As of March 2019, Sony had sold 4.2 million PlayStation VR headsets worldwide.

Last but not least, we learn that PS5 will support 8K output. This detail isn’t relevant to most consumers as the majority still do not even own a 4K television, but it could help PS5 mid-way through the next decade as 8K sets become more common.

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