Sony’s next-generation console, the PlayStation 6, is rumored to deliver a significant upgrade in memory, with tech experts at Digital Foundry speculating a jump from 16GB to 24GB of RAM. This increase is designed to support more advanced ray tracing and machine learning features, meeting escalating demands for richer graphics and future AI-powered gaming experiences.
Why 24GB Matters
The PlayStation 5 currently packs 16GB of RAM—a figure that has barely kept pace with the ever-growing ambition of next-gen games. Many PC titles already demand up to 32GB of memory for ultra settings, especially those pushing ray tracing and large, detailed worlds. The PS6’s potential 24GB RAM, while still short of PC’s top-end, represents a strategic balance: offering enough resources for next-level visuals and AI integration, while keeping costs manageable for Sony.
DRAM prices remain high, making 32GB impractical for a mass-market console, so 24GB is considered the sweet spot. This expanded memory would allow developers to push texture detail and world fidelity even further and would open the door for integrated AI enhancements without performance compromises.
Cost and Market Strategy
Despite soaring component costs, reports suggest Sony will use its bargaining power to avoid passing those price hikes directly to consumers. This means the PS6’s increase in RAM is not expected to significantly raise the launch price—a key move to keep PlayStation competitive as high-end gaming costs rise.
Next-Gen Handheld Rumors
The rumor mill also hints at a new PlayStation handheld, set to launch alongside the PS6, that could offer 16GB of RAM—maintaining backward compatibility and running PS5-level games on the go. The two-tier memory strategy allows Sony to diversify its hardware lineup while optimizing performance for both home and portable platforms.
Timeline and What’s Next
Following Sony’s traditional seven-year console cycle, the PlayStation 6 is unlikely to debut before 2026 or 2027. As developers and gamers alike push for more immersive, AI-driven experiences, the boost to 24GB RAM could set a new baseline for what players expect from the next wave of console gaming.
While none of these specs are officially confirmed by Sony, the trend is clear: more power, more potential for innovation, and a continued effort to balance cutting-edge technology with accessible pricing.