A completely digital PS6 seems unlikely, according to former PlayStation head Shawn Layden: 'I think it would be complicated for them to completely eliminate discs.'
Layden believes that an entirely digital PS6 console could impact Sony's market.
The possibility of Sony launching a PlayStation 6 console without a disc drive has been a topic of debate. Shawn Layden, former head of Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios, has shared his thoughts on this matter, arguing that the company could face challenges if it opts for a completely digital model. In a recent talk, Layden mentioned that, unlike Xbox, which has had some success with its digital strategy, Sony needs to consider a much broader market.
The former executive highlighted that Xbox has thrived in English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, but this doesn’t necessarily translate to global acceptance. Layden emphasized that Sony, being the leading platform in around 170 countries, must evaluate how a disc-less model could impact its users in areas with limited internet connectivity, such as rural parts of Italy.
Layden also pointed out the importance of PlayStation for on-the-go gamers, such as athletes and military personnel, who rely on the ability to play without a constant internet connection. According to him, an exclusively digital approach could hinder these users and the player base in general.
The former SIE CEO concluded that while it is likely Sony is researching this potential change, the diverse size of its market would complicate a definitive leap to a digital format. Despite trends in the industry, Layden believes it would be difficult for Sony to completely eliminate discs in the next generation.
