According to a recent Bloomberg report, Sony may push back the launch of its next-generation gaming console – widely expected to be the PlayStation 6 (PS6) – until 2028 or even 2029. The possible delay is attributed to a worsening global memory chip shortage, which has sharply raised costs and disrupted supply planning across the tech industry.
The report notes that the price of a major DRAM category rose by about 75% between December and January, underscoring the severity of the crisis. For Sony, the delay of its flagship console reflects the wider turmoil in the memory market and the difficulty of securing components at stable prices.
Memory crisis is not limited to games. Bloomberg’s sources indicate that Nintendo – Sony’s main rival – is also weighing price increases for its hardware in 2026, signaling pressure across the entire console ecosystem. Smartphone makers are also feeling the impact. Citing data from Chinese outlet Jiemian, manufacturers such as Xiaomi, OPPO and Shenzhen Transsion Holdings (parent of TECNO, Infinix and Itel) are said to be lowering their shipment targets for 2026. Only OPPO is said to be cutting forecasts by up to 20%.
Low-end smartphones are expected to be hit the hardest. DRAM could soon make up as much as 30% of the bill of materials for budget devices – up from 10% in early 2025 – putting pressure on margins for manufacturers with limited pricing power.
Why memory is scarce: Switch to AI
Industry analysts point to a strategic orientation by major memory suppliers – Samsung, Micron and SK Hynix – towards HBM (High Bandwidth Memory) for AI accelerators. According to TrendForce, demand for HBM is expected to grow by 70% year-over-year in 2026, driving capacity away from conventional DRAM used in consumer electronics.
This reallocation is creating one of the biggest supply chain disruptions in recent years, with ripple effects across the electronics, telecom and automotive sectors.
At the same time, hyperscalers are increasing investment. Alphabet and Amazon have announced capital spending plans of roughly $185 billion and $200 billion, respectively, this year — among the largest in corporate history — further intensifying competition for advanced storage.
What it means for PS6
If Sony delays the PS6 to 2028 – 2029, it would mark a longer-than-usual gap between console generations, likely aimed at stabilizing costs, ensuring supply and protecting launch prices. While Sony hasn’t officially confirmed the timelines, the report suggests that memory availability and price could be deciding factors.
