Sony is reportedly considering delaying the release of the PlayStation 6 to either 2028 or 2029, as an ongoing crisis in the supply of memory chips impacts console production plans. The potential delay, described as a “major upset” to the company’s plans, comes amid increased demand for memory from artificial intelligence developers like Nvidia and Google, according to a report from Bloomberg.
The surge in demand from the AI sector is driving up the price of essential components like RAM, which could as well lead to a price increase for Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 console. This situation highlights the growing impact of the AI industry on the broader technology supply chain and its potential to disrupt consumer electronics markets.
According to the report, companies developing AI technologies are prioritized for chip supplies, leaving console manufacturers facing potential shortages and increased costs. Nintendo is reportedly evaluating a price adjustment for the Switch 2 in response to these rising component costs. Though, Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa recently indicated that the company doesn’t anticipate a significant impact on hardware profitability in the near term, stating, “We do not disclose details regarding individual components, but we can say that we are working to secure stable supplies of memory components by holding discussions from a long-term perspective with our business partners.”
The potential delay of the PS6 and the possible price increase for the Switch 2 underscore the challenges facing the gaming industry as it navigates a complex global supply chain. The memory chip shortage is impacting both Sony and Nintendo, forcing them to reassess their strategies. Neither company has publicly commented on the Bloomberg report.
Recent reports also suggest Sony is exploring a handheld version of the PS6, potentially mirroring the Nintendo Switch’s hybrid console model. Details regarding the technical specifications of a potential ‘PS6 handheld’ have surfaced, though these remain unconfirmed. Further discussion on this topic can be found on Reddit.
The ongoing chip crisis is not limited to the gaming industry, with broader implications for the technology sector. GamesRadar+ reports that the situation is a result of the intense demand for memory chips driven by the rapid growth of AI. IGN also covered the story on February 16, 2026.
