On October 26, 2026, reports indicated Sony secured an exclusive deal with AMD. This deal is for a custom RDNA 5 chip. The chip will power Sony's upcoming PlayStation handheld device. This exclusivity could give Sony a significant performance advantage over competitors. Other manufacturers might use older RDNA architectures in next-generation handheld gaming consoles.
The exclusivity stems from AMD's increasing selectivity in developing semi-custom chips. AMD requires a commitment to large production volumes. Only Sony was reportedly willing to make this commitment. This development aligns with Sony's broader gaming market strategy. Sony has also increased the frequency of PS5 firmware updates. These updates aim to combat piracy.
This news follows Sony's announcement to cease physical disc production for PlayStation titles. This change begins in 2028. The move generated controversy among some players. The focus on a powerful new handheld suggests Sony continues to invest heavily in its gaming ecosystem's future.