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The gaming world is already looking beyond the PlayStation 5, and new details are emerging about Sony’s next console, currently referred to as the PS6. While still in early development, reports suggest the PS6 may not fully utilize the capabilities of AMD’s upcoming RDNA 5 graphics architecture, marking a potential departure from the approach taken with previous PlayStation generations. This shift in strategy could signal a more customized approach to hardware design for Sony’s future gaming platform.
The information, initially surfacing from industry sources, indicates that Sony is exploring a hybrid approach, potentially integrating elements of RDNA 4 alongside RDNA 5. This decision isn’t necessarily a rejection of AMD’s latest technology, but rather a strategic move to optimize performance and cost-effectiveness for the PS6. The PlayStation 5, released in November 2020, currently utilizes a custom AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU, and has shipped 92.2 million units as of February 2026, according to recent data from Wikipedia. The PS6’s architecture will likely build upon this foundation, but with a potentially more nuanced implementation of AMD’s technologies.
PS6 GPU Architecture: A Hybrid Approach
The potential use of both RDNA 4 and RDNA 5 in the PS6’s GPU is intriguing. RDNA 4 is expected to bring advancements in ray tracing capabilities, while RDNA 5 is anticipated to deliver significant performance gains and efficiency improvements. By combining elements of both architectures, Sony could aim to strike a balance between cutting-edge features and cost control. The current PlayStation 5 boasts a peak graphics performance of 10.28 TFLOPS using AMD’s RDNA 2 architecture according to Wikipedia. The PS6 is expected to significantly surpass this figure, but the exact performance targets remain unconfirmed.
This strategy could also allow Sony greater flexibility in managing supply chain constraints and manufacturing costs. RDNA 5 components may be more expensive or difficult to procure, prompting Sony to leverage existing RDNA 4 technology where appropriate. The PlayStation 5 Slim, for example, offers 1 TB of storage, demonstrating Sony’s willingness to offer variations within a console generation as detailed on Wikipedia.
Backward Compatibility and Enhanced Features
Beyond the GPU, the PS6 is expected to continue prioritizing backward compatibility, a feature that has been well-received by PlayStation fans. The PS5 is already backwards compatible with over 4,000 PS4 games as highlighted on the official PlayStation website, and Sony is likely to extend this support to future generations. This ensures a seamless transition for players and preserves their existing game libraries.
Further enhancements are anticipated in areas such as storage, with the potential for even faster NVMe SSDs and increased capacity. The base PS5 model currently features an 825 GB SSD, while the Slim (Disc) version offers 1 TB according to Wikipedia. Improvements to the Tempest Engine 3D audio technology and the DualSense controller are also likely, building upon the immersive experiences offered by the PS5.
What to Expect Next
While details surrounding the PS6 remain scarce, the emerging information suggests a thoughtful and strategic approach to hardware development. Sony appears to be prioritizing a balance between performance, cost, and backward compatibility, potentially opting for a hybrid GPU architecture to achieve these goals. As development progresses, more concrete details are expected to emerge, offering a clearer picture of Sony’s vision for the future of PlayStation. The company continues to innovate with existing platforms, as evidenced by the release of God of War Sons of Sparta on PS5 as announced on the official PlayStation site.
What are your thoughts on Sony’s potential approach to the PS6? Share your predictions and expectations in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with fellow gaming enthusiasts!