AI Boom Threatens to Delay PlayStation 6, Drive Up Nintendo Switch 2 Price

The insatiable appetite of artificial intelligence for memory chips is beginning to ripple through the gaming world, potentially impacting the release schedules and pricing of next-generation consoles. Both Sony and Nintendo are reportedly feeling the pressure as memory chip manufacturers prioritize supplying the booming AI data center market, leading to shortages and increased costs for crucial components like RAM.

According to a Bloomberg report citing industry sources, Sony is considering delaying the launch of its next PlayStation console, tentatively referred to as PlayStation 6, to 2028 or even 2029. This marks a significant departure from Sony's historical release pattern, which has seen a new PlayStation generation emerge every six to seven years since the original console's debut in 1994. Given the PlayStation 5's November 2020 launch, a successor would typically be expected before the end of 2027. A delay of this magnitude could significantly alter the competitive landscape and give rivals, such as Microsoft's Xbox, an opportunity to gain market share.

Nintendo is also facing challenges. The company is reportedly considering raising the price of its upcoming Switch 2 console, a move that would break with its previous strategy of absorbing increased costs. Last year, Nintendo consciously avoided raising the Switch 2's anticipated launch price, despite the imposition of tariffs. The current price is rumored to be $450. While the Bloomberg report offers no specific figures, any price increase could deter potential buyers and impact the console's initial sales momentum, especially in a price-sensitive market.

The root of the problem lies in the escalating demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and other advanced memory chips used in AI accelerators. These chips are crucial for training and running complex AI models, and data centers are willing to pay a premium to secure sufficient supplies. This increased demand is straining the overall memory chip supply chain, leaving less capacity for other sectors, including consumer electronics.

The situation highlights the growing interconnectedness of different technology sectors. The AI revolution, while promising transformative advancements, is creating ripple effects across various industries, forcing companies to adapt to changing supply chains and cost pressures. For gamers, this could mean longer waits for new hardware and potentially higher prices for the consoles they covet. Both Sony and Nintendo have been contacted for comment, but no official statements have been released at the time of publication. The potential delays and price hikes represent a significant challenge for both companies as they navigate this evolving technological landscape.