Rumors that Sony was prepping a new model of the PS5 in 2023 have been swirling for some time. While this version of the console has been unofficially dubbed the “PS5 Slim,” various insiders in the know have disputed whether it would actually be much smaller. Instead, the main goal of the new console design is to eliminate the 2-SKU approach (without and without a Blu-ray drive) currently seen with the PS5. This new PS5 would instead have a detachable drive you’d buy separately, allowing Sony to sell only one base SKU. Of course, Sony is also very likely to make some changes under the hood to decrease manufacturing costs ect.
Earlier this week, details emerged from a Twitter user who claims to be a PS5 software designer who described the new machine. We then got a partial image of the new PS5 (which supposedly carries the product number CFI-2016). Well, now that Twitter user who kicked everything off, “BwE_Dev,” has returned with a full-on 10 second video of the hardware. You can check it out for yourself, below.
CFI-2016 PS5 Case pic.twitter.com/udFyQbVpz8
— BwE (@BwE_Dev) August 11, 2023
Of course, take this with a grain of salt for now, but this looks exactly the same as the screenshot previously shared. Where this guy got the machine, I’m not sure, but there have been reports they’re making their way into developers’ hands. A peek at the bottom of the machine also seems to show a clear dividing line where the detachable Blu-ray drive splits off. That explains why there’s the black “racing stripe” on the side of the machine – the whole lower section on one side can seemingly be removed in order to attach the disc drive, and there’s also a black stripe on the other side for, I suppose, visual symmetry.
So, if we assume this is indeed the new PS5 model, I’d say it’s a decent, if limited, little visual upgrade. Make no mistake, this is still a PS5 –if you were expecting a complete overhaul, you’re out of luck. That said, it does look slightly streamlined, the detachable disc drive is a good idea, and based on how this guy is able to easily twist and turn the console with a single hand, it’s probably not as weighty as early models.
What do you think? If this is indeed the new PS5 model, do you think it’s an improvement on the original? Or is it actually a step back?
