The conversation around Sony’s next console is as much about a handheld as it is the PlayStation 6.
Multiple leaks suggest a device codenamed Canis, described as a true hybrid rather than a repeat of Sony’s earlier handhelds like the PSP or Vita.
The most eye-catching detail is that it could feature a dock, much like Nintendo’s Switch and Switch 2.
However, while at first glance this appears to be Sony taking a page from Nintendo’s playbook, the purpose behind the dock seems to be quite different.
How Would the Dock Actually Work?
On Nintendo systems, the dock is mostly a convenience feature for quick handheld-to-TV play with a minor boost, while the PS6 handheld’s dock is said to center on power gains.
Reports suggest the device’s GPU would run at about 1.20 GHz while handheld and jump up to around 1.65 GHz when docked.
The performance boost could let the handheld rival the PS5 on its own and surpass it in ray tracing when docked.
What’s Under the Hood of the PS6 Handheld?
The claim is supported by AMD documentation, which points to a Zen 6 CPU and a 16 CU RDNA 5 GPU with dedicated system cores.
Features like backward compatibility with PS4 and PS5 titles, FSR-style upscaling, haptic feedback, and expandable storage via M.2 SSD have all been mentioned.
If accurate, this would put Sony’s handheld far ahead of Nintendo’s machines in raw power and much closer to offering a true console-grade experience on the go.
Importantly, the dock contains no additional components. It simply provides more cooling and power to allow the existing hardware to run at higher speeds.
What’s the Release Window for the PS6 Handheld?
Rumors point to both the PS6 and its handheld launching around late 2027 or early 2028, with the portable possibly selling for about $500 by itself.
Bundling it with the main PS6 could push the combined cost close to or over $1,000, unless Sony creates smart packages.
Some reports even mention a third SKU, dubbed the PS6S, which suggests Sony might test out multiple tiers, including a cheaper option like Microsoft’s Xbox Series S.
How Would It Compare to the Switch 2?
Naturally, people look at the Switch 2 as a point of reference, though the two brands are taking different paths in the hybrid market.
Nintendo focuses on ease of play and its strong lineup of exclusives, while Sony appears to be targeting a portable AAA experience that rivals console play.
The PS6 handheld is expected to run games locally, unlike the PlayStation Portal, which only streamed from a PS5.
That would place it against both Nintendo and handheld PCs, such as the ROG Ally and Steam Deck. Of course, all of this remains unconfirmed, and Sony has not officially acknowledged the project.
However, consistent reports from sources with proven track records suggest there may be substance to this claim.
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