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PS6 Release Date May Face Delays as RAM Shortages Raise Hardware Costs
The PlayStation 6 is still years away, but new industry reports suggest that Sony’s next-generation console could face an unexpected obstacle long before launch. According to recent claims, global RAM shortages and rising memory prices may push back the PS6 release timeline, potentially affecting Sony’s original plans for a 2027–2028 launch window.
While these reports have sparked debate across the gaming community, not everyone sees the situation as a major concern. In fact, many PlayStation fans believe a delayed PS6 launch could actually benefit the current console generation.
Rising DDR5 RAM Prices Could Impact Next-Gen Consoles
The primary issue behind the rumored delay is the sharp increase in DDR5 RAM prices. Since late 2024, memory costs have surged as artificial intelligence companies aggressively purchased large volumes of RAM for data centers and AI training systems. This sudden demand has strained global supply chains, making it more expensive for hardware manufacturers to secure memory components.
Back in November, early rumors suggested that this shortage could directly affect next-generation consoles, including the PlayStation 6. Now, a new report from Insider Gaming appears to support those claims, stating that console makers are actively discussing whether to delay their upcoming hardware launches to avoid inflated production costs.
Sony Reportedly Rethinking PS6’s 2027–2028 Launch Window
According to Insider Gaming, industry sources indicate that manufacturers are reconsidering their original timelines. The report claims that companies are debating whether delaying next-gen consoles would allow RAM suppliers more time to expand production capacity, eventually stabilizing prices.
“From what we understand, the situation has led console manufacturers to debate whether the next generation of consoles should be delayed from their intended 2027–2028 release window.”
This is particularly notable because previous leaks suggested Sony planned to begin PS6 manufacturing around mid-2027, potentially targeting a November 2027 release—similar to past PlayStation launches.
Micron’s Exit from the Consumer RAM Market Adds Pressure
Adding to the uncertainty is Micron’s recent announcement that it will exit the consumer memory market in 2026. Micron currently supplies nearly 30% of global RAM, and its decision to focus exclusively on enterprise and AI clients could further reduce availability for consumer electronics.
If memory supply tightens even more, console manufacturers like Sony may struggle to keep costs under control without passing price increases onto consumers. Delaying the PS6 launch could help avoid releasing an expensive console in an unstable market.
Industry Experts Say It’s Too Early to Predict a PS6 Delay
Despite the concerns, not all experts believe a delay is inevitable. Tech insider Moore’s Law Is Dead addressed the issue in a recent December podcast, stating that it’s still too early to determine whether the RAM shortage will persist into 2027.
According to him, internal documents suggest the PS6 is scheduled for manufacturing in mid-2027, and current shortages may ease before that point. He also noted that RAM manufacturers are rapidly expanding production and investing in new technologies designed to improve efficiency.
“There is more RAM coming. They are building out as much as possible. Short term, there will be a shortage in 2026, but the industry is moving fast.”
While this may not be reassuring for gamers hoping for clarity, it suggests the situation remains fluid rather than critical.
PlayStation Fans Aren’t in a Hurry for PS6
Interestingly, many PlayStation players have reacted positively to the possibility of a delayed PS6 launch. Across social media and forums like Reddit, fans expressed satisfaction with the current PlayStation 5 generation and believe it still has plenty of life left.
One user commented that modern games are not pushing the PS5 to its limits, while others argued that developers are only now beginning to fully utilize the console’s hardware. Some fans even welcomed the idea of Sony extending the PS5’s lifespan rather than rushing into another generation.
What a PS6 Delay Could Mean for the Gaming Industry
If Sony does delay the PS6, the impact could extend beyond PlayStation. Other platforms, including Valve’s rumored Steam Machine hardware, may also face pricing challenges if they launch during peak RAM shortages.
For now, the gaming industry remains in a waiting phase. Much depends on how quickly memory manufacturers can stabilize supply and whether AI-driven demand continues at its current pace.
Final Thoughts: Delay or Not, PS6 Still a Long Way Off
At this stage, a PS6 delay remains speculative rather than confirmed. While RAM shortages and rising prices present real challenges, industry experts believe the situation could improve before Sony’s production timeline begins.
Until then, PlayStation fans appear content enjoying the PS5 ecosystem, with many agreeing that there’s no urgent need for a new console just yet. Whether Sony sticks to its original schedule or opts for a strategic delay, the PlayStation 6 is still shaping up to be one of the most anticipated console launches of the decade.