Sony is reportedly in the early stages of developing a new handheld gaming console designed to play PlayStation 5 games natively, aiming to compete directly with Nintendo’s Switch. This initiative seeks to expand Sony’s presence in the portable gaming market and counter potential mobile hardware developments from competitors like Microsoft.

This prospective device would build upon the foundation laid by the PlayStation Portal, an 8-inch handheld released in 2023 that allows users to stream PS5 games over the internet. Unlike the Portal, which requires a PS5 for streaming, the new console is intended to function as a standalone device, similar to Valve’s Steam Deck.

Sony’s renewed interest in portable gaming

While details remain scarce and the project is still in its conceptual phase, the development of this handheld console signifies Sony’s renewed interest in portable gaming. If brought to fruition, it would mark Sony’s first native handheld gaming device since the PlayStation Vita, which was discontinued in 2019.

This move comes amid increasing competition in the handheld gaming sector, with all major console manufacturers exploring portable gaming solutions. Sony’s potential entry into this market could significantly impact the landscape, offering gamers a new platform to experience PS5 titles on the go.