2020 is finally here, therefore the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are now scheduled to arrive this year. Based on the leaked PS5 and Xbox Series X specs, both consoles look like they will deliver on the implied promise of next-gen gaming experiences powered by next-gen technology. In discussing this recently, Xbox chief Phil Spencer had plenty of praise to give to the advancements being made, not just by Microsoft but Sony as well.

With the two set to compete for dominance in the console race, it’d be understandable to assume one company wouldn’t have anything nice to say about the other. Nevertheless, Spencer told German publication PC Games Hardware that it’s actually a good thing that both of them are going all-in with the PS5 and XSX. Regarding the PlayStation 5, he focused on one of the most-hyped features of the console so far, a Solid-State Drive (SSD) in place of a traditional disc-based hard drive (something the XSX will also boast).

For the uninitiated, SSDs are typically capable of processing data faster and more efficiently than hard drives. In the past few months, both Microsoft and Sony have highlighted how this technology will reduce load times considerably. But if the rumors surrounding the PS5 and Xbox Series X are any indication, the next-gen possibilities go well beyond that, with potential for improved backward compatibility with older consoles, the ability to install games in modular pieces, and more.

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The general message so far is that the companies are focusing on making sure the PS5 and Xbox Series X are easy and convenient to use for console developers and gamers alike, hence Spencer’s praise for the PS5’s SSD. “I like that Mark Cerny and his team at Sony are also investing in an SSD for the PlayStation 5, the engines and tools can implement corresponding functions,” he said. “Together we will ensure a larger installed base - and developers will do everything possible to master and support the programming of these hardware capabilities.”

PlayStation logo next to Xbox Series X mixed background

Beyond that, though, Spencer didn’t have much to say, simply because he doesn’t have a PS5 development kit, further adding that “I don't even think our Minecraft team does.” Being as Minecraft developer Mojang is one of the only Xbox Game Studios developing games on other platforms, it’s not surprising Spencer would reference it. This suggests that Minecraft will eventually make its way to the PS5. Though the fact that Mojang might not have a dev kit yet suggests that it likely won’t happen before the game comes to the XSX.

Overall, Spencer is excited about the innovations this year’s consoles will bring to the gaming market, saying, “it will be exciting to see how the industry will benefit from the comprehensive use of such solutions." We’ve been starting to see exactly how in an official capacity now that the XSX has been officially revealed. As for the PS5, we still have to wait to find out, but rumor has it that the PS5 could be officially unveiled as soon as next week.

The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X will launch in holiday 2020.

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Source: PC Games Hardware