Rumored PlayStation Handheld to Include AI Upscaling, 16 GB LPDDR5X RAM, and 16 MB MALL to Compensate for Lower Memory Bandwidth Compared to PS5

The Anticipated PlayStation Handheld: What We Know So Far

Excitement is building around an impending announcement for a new PlayStation handheld device, rumored to include advanced features like AI upscaling. Insights into its specifications suggest that it may compensate for lower memory bandwidth compared to the standard PlayStation 5.

Insights from AMD Leaker KeplerL2

Renowned AMD insider, KeplerL2, recently shared intriguing details regarding this anticipated handheld on the NeoGAF forums. According to the leaks, the proprietary AMD APU powering this device is purported to be the first from AMD to incorporate AI upscaling technology. KeplerL2 also divulged that this handheld will feature 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM upon its release in a few years, as LPDDR6 remains on the horizon. Notably, the device is said to offer approximately one-third of the memory bandwidth found in the original PlayStation 5, yet it will reportedly include enhancements such as additional cache and improved memory compression techniques.

Architectural Innovations

The architectural framework for the PlayStation handheld aligns with that of the upcoming PlayStation 6, both of which are expected to utilize a modified version of the gfx13 architecture (RDNA5/UDNA).This synergy suggests a focused development strategy within Sony, aiming for a consistent performance profile across its gaming systems.

Hints of Development and Power Efficiency

While Sony has not officially confirmed the existence of the handheld, recent announcements indicate that both the PlayStation 5 and the rumored PS5 Pro are set to introduce a low energy mode intended to enhance power efficiency. This mode seems to resonate with indications of an oncoming handheld device, reinforcing the speculation surrounding its development.

Competitive Landscape in Handheld Gaming

In the broader context of the handheld gaming market, Microsoft has subtly outlined its intentions during this year’s Xbox Game Showcase, unveiling the ROG Xbox Ally—a handheld gaming PC with an Xbox branding. Although there were murmurs that Microsoft was developing a comprehensive handheld system, reports suggest these plans have been sidelined in favor of bolstering Windows 11’s gaming capabilities to better compete with SteamOS.

As the gaming community eagerly anticipates more news about the PlayStation handheld, the competitive advancements from other companies highlight the emerging trends and technological innovations in the handheld sector.

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