Will PlayStation make another handheld console?

As of early 2025, Sony has not officially confirmed any plans to release a new handheld gaming console after the PlayStation Vita, which was discontinued in 2019. However, there have been ongoing speculations, leaks, and rumors suggesting that Sony could be exploring the idea of another handheld device. Here are some key points to consider:

Recent Developments and Possibilities:

1. PlayStation Portal: In 2023, Sony released a PlayStation Portal, which is a remote play device rather than a fully independent handheld console. This device allows users to stream PlayStation 5 games to a portable screen, but it does not run games independently like the PlayStation Vita did. This suggests that Sony may be focusing on portable devices that work in conjunction with their home consoles rather than standalone handheld gaming systems.

2. Cloud Gaming Trends: Sony’s recent moves toward cloud gaming, including its partnership with Microsoft and investment in cloud services, hint at the possibility of a handheld device designed to run games via streaming. A future PlayStation handheld could potentially leverage cloud gaming to access PlayStation titles, offering a portable experience without needing to run games natively on the device.

3. PlayStation Vita’s Legacy: While the Vita was a beloved console by many, it didn’t reach the commercial success Sony hoped for. The success of handheld gaming devices like the Nintendo Switch and the rise of cloud gaming could influence Sony's strategy if they decide to re-enter the market.

4. Sony’s Focus on PlayStation 5 and VR: Sony has been prioritizing its PlayStation 5 and its new VR technology, PlayStation VR2, as part of their strategy moving forward. There hasn't been significant emphasis on handheld gaming, suggesting that Sony might continue to focus on their main console market and VR systems rather than pursue a new handheld console in the immediate future.

What Could a New PlayStation Handheld Look Like?

• Improved Graphics and Performance: Given the technological advances since the PlayStation Vita, a new handheld could feature higher performance and better graphics, possibly rivaling the Nintendo Switch or even next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5.
• Cloud Gaming Integration: A new PlayStation handheld could focus heavily on cloud gaming, allowing users to play PlayStation 5 titles on the go through streaming services, much like the Steam Deck or the Nintendo Switch Online system.
• Cross-Platform Connectivity: A PlayStation handheld could allow cross-platform play with PlayStation consoles, letting you continue your gaming session anywhere, much like the Xbox Cloud Gaming or Steam Deck features.

Conclusion:

While there is no confirmed news of Sony making another standalone handheld console, the idea is still floating around in the gaming community. Given the success of other portable consoles like the Nintendo Switch and the increasing trend of cloud gaming, it’s possible that Sony might eventually return to the handheld market in some form. For now, though, it seems Sony’s focus is on its core console offerings and gaming services, leaving the handheld space for others to dominate.