For many, it's likely hard to believe that it's already September, and there's still a lot unknown about the next PlayStation. In any other console year, there's aspects like UI and additional software features that fans would've already known about by now compared to the PS5 in 2020. Sure, there are plenty of assumptions that can be made, but many aspects like these would've already been common knowledge by now. Now, on the assumption that PS5 will release in November, there's time for one more deep dive into PS5 prior to release.
As rumors came and went about future shows, the PlayStation 5 presumably has one more big show, conference, or some kind of announcement planned prior to release. PS5 is likely launching at some point in November, like every other console year, and there's still a lot fans don't know about the console. Whether it's information on the UI, social features, additional hardware advancements, or even the price of the console itself, PS5 still needs one more big showing before its presumed release in three months.
PS5 Features Outside of Just the Games
Something that's not often talked about for the PlayStation 5 is the new UI and potential features of the console outside of just games. Of course, the "games first" mentality that Sony has adopted since 2013 has helped skyrocket their success over Microsoft. That being said, three months away from release, all that's known about the new UI for PS5 is that it definitely exists. There's been tidbits of information about 3D audio and other game-related features, but there's still nothing known about any revamped social features, parties, online capabilities, etc.
All that's known right now is generally based on patents or leaks about the PS5's operating system. None of the rumors about enhanced game streaming capabilities or that cancelled mirrorless camera have been clarified or proven by any announcements yet. There certainly hasn't been any visual representation of the new UI or menus other than that short tidbit in the PS5 reveal presentation. As much as fans want to know more about the games coming to PS5, things like PSN social features and the system's capabilities outside of games are just as important.
The PS5 Needs a Price, and Soon
One key piece of information is still missing from both Sony and Microsoft: the price of the next generation of consoles. This past generation, both PS4 and Xbox One revealed their console prices during E3, which 2020's show would've been three months ago now. Granted it was a different time and Sony jumped at the opportunity to undercut Microsoft, who had already announced the price of the Xbox One at $499. There's likely the perception that the stakes are much higher this generation, considering how both consoles have very similar hardware. Both Sony and Microsoft are taking very different approaches to the next console generation, but both need to reveal prices soon.
It's gotten to the point where Sony is offering a pre-order "registration" process for PS5 consoles, so that fans can get notified when Sony-direct pre-orders are live. The clock's ticking for both console makers, who presumably are inching closer to marketplace deadlines from various retailers to start selling the consoles themselves. All of the rumors are pointing to a slightly more expensive console generation, and with only three months left until November, consumers have a right to know what they're getting into price-wise.
The PS5's Problematic Lack of Information
That being said, the excitement for the next-generation is definitely palpable. There's a solid lineup of games coming to the PS5's launch window that'll make it worth adopting early. It's just unfortunate that there's a pretty problematic lack of information about the PS5 that could make or break those on the next-gen fence. Considering the prices of several big ticket games themselves are rising to $70, console price is definitely a big factor this holiday. Not to mention some of the basic/additional features of the PS5 are still relatively unknown.
For now, the hype train still rolls for PlayStation 5 this holiday. Let's just hope that one last presentation finally fleshes out the little but important details that consumers need to know. Especially price, as it's almost absurd how close the PS5's release is without a price announcement.
The PS5 is planned to release in holiday 2020.