Every generation of consoles adds certain hardware features to stand out from the competition. The upcoming next-generation PlayStation and Xbox consoles are likely to have their own surprises, though up until now both Sony and Microsoft have kept their secrets well. One of those secrets, however, may have been revealed. A new rumor from an anonymous source states that both the PS5 and the next Xbox will include cameras, so as to appeal to streamers.
According to a report from Gizmodo, an anonymous source shared early details about next-generation dev kits that have since been confirmed. The seemingly reliable source then provided additional details about the PS5 and next-generation Xbox, including information about their cameras. Given that the information is coming from an unverified source, it should be taken with a grain of salt. That said, it does make a lot of sense given the current state of the gaming industry.
The source claims that the current prototype for Project Scarlett, Microsoft's next-generation Xbox console, features a camera capable of 4K resolution. This high-quality camera allows for "2-frame latency" from recording to broadcast, though the report doesn't clarify the camera's frame rate in the first place. Microsoft's goal is said to be competing for the growing console streaming audience, which is understandable given Microsoft's robust investment into its Mixer streaming platform.
Details regarding Sony's camera for the PS5 are less specific. The report states that the prototype PS5 features a camera based on "older camera technology." It's unclear if this description implies a 1080p resolution, lower framerate, or other performance issues. Devkit technology isn't final, of course, so what's in the current hardware could be there just to allow devs to get used to the technology. A more impressive camera could be added later, or it could easily be removed, too.
This news is certain to garner a mixed response among the console gaming audience. Cameras bundled with consoles have a dubious past, especially with regards to the Xbox One's Kinect. Bundling in cameras for a new console is certain to receive backlash of some degree. Console gamers traditionally prefer to have accessories, especially expensive camera accessories, to be released for purchase as a separate product. Of course, that may very well be the plan. Sony and Microsoft may just be implementing cameras into devkits for development purposes, but are otherwise planning for them to be released as separate accessories.
While there's no argument that streaming is increasingly popular, it's certainly not a majority of console gamers. Nevertheless, new console generations are all about pushing new technologies. As with any new technology, there's risk. It will be interesting to see how, if this rumor is accurate, prospective console buyers respond to the idea.
Update: Microsoft has responded to Gizmodo's article regarding Project Scarlet featuring a camera, denying that "any camera technology is in development and that none has been delivered to developers."
Source: Gizmodo