While video game consoles traditionally become more affordable as they mature in the market, the current generation has proven to be an exception, influenced by various market dynamics. In Europe, potential purchasers of the PS5 Digital Edition might soon find themselves with a console offering reduced storage capacity. It has been reported that the internal SSD capacity is being shrunk, a strategic move by Sony to avert yet another price increase for the hardware.
According to information shared by the prominent leaker Billbil-kun, the SSD in the PS5 Digital Edition is projected to decrease from 1TB to 825GB. This alteration is anticipated to coincide with the release of the next console chassis-E revision, which is expected to become available for purchase on September 13. Billbil-kun also highlighted the notable price trajectory of the PS5 Digital Edition, which initially launched at €399 in 2020, only to subsequently rise to €449 and then €499 (equivalent to approximately $582). The standard PS5 console, which includes a disc drive, is expected to maintain its existing 1TB SSD.
This year has presented a significant financial challenge for individuals looking to acquire a PS5 console. Sony implemented price adjustments for both the Digital and Standard Edition PS5 consoles across Europe, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand in April. This was followed by a $50 price hike for all PS5 system models in the US in August. At the time, Sony explained these increases were necessary as it continued to navigate a “challenging economic environment” and had to pass on these increased costs to consumers.
Industry analyst Daniel Ahmad attributed these increases to higher tariff rates levied on countries where the PS5 is manufactured. Specifically, China faces a 30% tariff, Japan 15%, Vietnam 20%, and Malaysia 19%. These tariffs, he noted, were a result of new trade policies announced by US President Donald Trump earlier this year, forcing Sony`s hand in adjusting pricing.
This trend of escalating prices is not isolated to Sony. Microsoft similarly announced price increases for its Xbox consoles in May. Furthermore, Nintendo has indicated that it has not ruled out the possibility of raising the price of the future Switch 2, following earlier adjustments to Switch 2 accessory pricing, signalling a broader industry challenge.