Playstation Portal 2? New Sony Handheld Reportedly in the Works to Compete with the Switch

Sony is reportedly developing a new portable gaming console to re-enter the handheld market and compete with rivals. Details about this ambitious project are revealed below.

Sony's Return to Handheld Gaming

Bloomberg reported on November 25th that Sony is actively developing a new handheld console designed to let players enjoy PlayStation 5 games on the go. This move aims to broaden Sony's market reach and challenge Nintendo and Microsoft, both of whom are major players in the handheld gaming space. Nintendo's dominance, from the Game Boy to the Nintendo Switch, is well-established, while Microsoft is also reportedly exploring the handheld market.

This new handheld is expected to build upon the PlayStation Portal, launched last year, which allowed streaming of PS5 games. While the Portal received mixed reviews, a device capable of native PS5 game play could significantly increase Sony's appeal, especially given recent PS5 price increases.

Sony's history with handhelds includes the popular PlayStation Portable (PSP) and the well-received PS Vita. Despite their success, neither could surpass Nintendo. This new venture signals a renewed commitment to the handheld market.

Sony has not yet officially confirmed these reports.

The Growth of Mobile and Handheld Gaming

Modern lifestyles demand portable entertainment, fueling the growth of mobile gaming and its significant contribution to industry revenue. Smartphones offer convenient access to games and other apps, but their limitations in handling demanding titles create an opportunity for dedicated handheld consoles. Nintendo's Switch currently dominates this sector.

With Nintendo's anticipated Switch successor (reportedly slated for 2025) and Microsoft's entry into the handheld market, Sony's attempt to capture a share of this growing market is a strategic move.