Analyst Predicts The PlayStation 5 Could Launch in Late 2018

Recently, Sony unveiled the hotly anticipated PS4 Pro which features a significantly better specification than the base model. This is a revolutionary step for console gaming and a move towards multiple units with different capabilities. Throughout the briefing, Sony discussed 4K gaming and the benefits of HDR. Unfortunately, the PS4 Pro is still lacking in power and doesn’t have the required hardware to uphold a good frame-rate at extreme resolutions. In most cases, I’d expect games to be upscaled and not using a native 4K render. Of course, there will be exceptions but this comes at the expense of smoothness.

On another note, the device’s lack of 4K Blu-Ray support is puzzling and seems like a major oversight. From what I’ve gauged so far, the response has been quite negative and there’s lots of confusion surrounding the device’s technical capabilities. According to gaming industry analyst Damian Thong who has a good reputation when it comes to predicting future events, the PlayStation 5 could launch in the second half of 2018:

PS4 Pro? Wait, what about PS5? Macquarie's Damian Thong who correctly predicted PS4 slim and Pro says PS5 may arrive in 2nd half of 2018.

— Takashi Mochizuki (@6d6f636869) September 8, 2016

In my opinion, this is far too early and doesn’t give enough time for consumers to feel confident enough to invest in the PS4 Pro. Granted, the Xbox Scorpio is scheduled to release next year and apparently has the horsepower to provide a true native 4K experience. Saying that, it wouldn’t be wise to replace the PS4 Pro so quickly especially when people are already so sceptical about it.