The PS5 remains in short supply as PlayStation fans continue to snatch it up from various retail outlets, but Sony recently filed a patent that suggests a new model is on its way.
According to business analyst Roberto Serrano, Sony's new PS5 patent was filed on April 26. Serrano revealed on his Twitter account that the Sony patent was officially registered on May 23 which may suggest the new model of PS5 is already in the works. PlayStation fans currently have the choice between PS5 and PS5 digital edition, but this new model may simply replace the base PS5.
Many PlayStation fans may get excited by the prospect of a new PS5 model being in the works so early in the generation, but it may not differ from the base PS5. The only notable change being made to this model of PS5, according to the Sony patent, is the WiFi unit inside the console. The new WiFi module is called AW-XM501 and it will be replacing the existing PS5 model's J20H100 module. This suggests that the new model will simply replace the base PS5 just like the red box Nintendo Switch that quietly replaced the launch model.
The new model of PS5 is called CFI-1115A in the Sony patent which was recently spotted when it was registered in the Wireless communication module M20DAL1 by Sony Group Corp. The patent states this improved PS5 will receive a peak antenna gain of 4.0/3.5dBi, which may technically reduce the wireless performance on the console when it's connected to a router with a 2.4GHz signal.
Some PlayStation fans may wonder why the new module would reduce the peak antenna gain in a new model of PS5, but it shows a higher gain on routers with a 5GHz signal. The launch model of PS5 receives a peak antenna gain of PS5's 5.0/3.5dBi on a 5GHz signal, while the revised PS5 model hits a peak antenna gain of 6.0/4.5dBi. This may reduce ping and lag for PlayStation fans who have routers that reach 5GHz signals, but this hasn't been officially confirmed so owners of the new PS5 model may see no difference at all.
PlayStation gamers struggling to secure a PS5 may be looking forward to a PS5 Pro or PS5 Slim, but they'll be waiting a bit longer. The changed WiFi module seems to ride the line between 2.4 GHz capable routers and the 5GHz powerhouses a little better than the launch PS5 model. While PS5 enthusiasts may not see improved performance from the new model, there's probably a reason Sony decided to make the change.
Source: VGC