The PS5 Pro was indeed a '5-Year Project' that began development even before the PS5 was launched. According to Hideaki Nishino, Sony Interactive Entertainment's platform business group CEO, work on the PS5 Pro started prior to the PS5's release on November 19, 2020.
Nishino explained, "We started working on PS5 Pro even before PS5 launched — it was another five-year project for us." This approach aligns with Sony's strategy of planning ahead for future hardware iterations. The company learned from its experience with the PS4 Pro, which attracted both highly engaged users and newcomers to the PlayStation ecosystem.
The decision to develop a Pro version was driven by several factors:
1. Technological advancements: Nishino noted that innovation and technology progress more rapidly in the modern world, with phones and PCs updating annually.
2. Market demand: Based on PS4 Pro sales, Sony found that about 20% of customers opted for the premium tier console.
3. Long-term planning: Sony designs its consoles with future iterations in mind, ensuring the continuation of their 10-year generation cycle.
Nishino also mentioned that while they don't plan annual updates for consoles, they aim to package technological improvements that can be achieved within a three to five-year timeframe.
This long-term development strategy demonstrates Sony's commitment to evolving its hardware offerings and maintaining its competitive edge in the gaming industry. The PS5 Pro is expected to cater to both the most engaged gaming users and potentially attract new users to the PlayStation platform.
PlayStation CEOs Hideaki Nishino and Hermen Hulst Reveal How New Two-Business Strategy Impacts Studio, Console Plans (EXCLUSIVE)
New PlayStation CEOs Hideaki Nishino and Hermen Hulst sit down for their first interview together after assuming their roles.
variety.com
