Sony PlayStation 5 new patent exposure: Removable optical drive, modular design
Last year, reports emerged that Sony was preparing a slimmed-down version of the PlayStation 5, potentially entering production in the second quarter of 2023 and launching in the third quarter. This iteration, internally codenamed “D chassis,” features a novel mold design, resulting in a significantly reduced size and lighter weight. It also boasts lower operating temperatures, a detachable Blu-ray drive using the console’s rear USB-C port, and does not compromise the device’s aesthetics.
According to Segment Next, Sony has filed a new patent, the documents of which reveal a detachable optical drive, likely a component of the forthcoming PlayStation 5 variant. Although the patent description does not explicitly mention a gaming console, previous information, and patent contents suggest that this is part of the modular design for the gaming system, aligning with the PlayStation 5’s external appearance.
Currently, Sony offers both a disc-based and digital version of the PlayStation 5, which may be unified into a single new edition. It is said that the modular Blu-ray drive could be included in certain bundles but will also be sold separately, allowing players to decide whether they want the optical drive as part of their console. The new iteration may become thinner and lighter, while simplifying the manufacturing process, making the PlayStation 5 easier to produce.
Furthermore, it is highly likely that Sony’s custom SoC will utilize Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) 6nm process for the new PlayStation 5. With an 18% increase in transistor density compared to the N7 process, the N6 process can employ the same design rules, infrastructure, SPICE simulations, and IP, effectively reducing production and development costs while maximizing benefits with minimal expense. Rumors suggest that the new PlayStation 5 will be released around September 2023, while the existing disc-based and digital PlayStation 5 editions will cease production by the end of 2023.
