Why AMD Was Chosen Over Intel to Design Sony’s PS6 Chip
Sony recently announced its PS5 Pro, but the reception from potential buyers has been lukewarm at best. It seems that the focus is already shifting to what the next-generation PlayStation console, the PS6, will bring to the table. According to a report from Reuters, AMD has once again been chosen to design the chip for Sony’s upcoming console.
So, why did Sony choose AMD over Intel? The key reason is backward compatibility. Sources close to the decision revealed that ensuring a seamless gaming experience between the PS6 and its predecessor was a top priority for Sony. This is a lesson learned from the past, as the lack of native backward compatibility with the PS3 was a massive disappointment for fans when the PS4 was released in 2013.
By selecting AMD, Sony aims to maintain the goodwill it garnered with the PS5, which introduced backward compatibility. AMD’s experience in designing chips for Microsoft’s Xbox also likely played a role in the decision. Sony wanted a partner with a proven track record in creating gaming chips, and AMD fit the bill.
The deal between Sony and AMD has actually been in place since at least 2022, though it has only recently been made public. Tensions between Sony and Intel reportedly arose from disputes over profit-sharing, with Intel wanting a bigger cut per chip sold. While Intel declined to comment on discussions with Sony, the company pushed back against the notion that it “failed” to win the contract.
Had Intel secured a long-term deal with Sony, it could have potentially received billions of dollars in revenue. However, Sony ultimately decided to stick with AMD due to its established relationship and expertise in designing gaming chips.
This decision is significant not only for Sony and AMD but also for gamers. Backward compatibility allows players to continue enjoying their favorite games from previous console generations. It eliminates the need to repurchase games and ensures a smooth transition to the next generation of consoles. By prioritizing backward compatibility, Sony is showing its commitment to providing a seamless gaming experience for its customers.
In conclusion, the choice to partner with AMD for the design of the PS6 chip was driven by Sony’s desire for backward compatibility and a smooth gaming experience. AMD’s experience in creating gaming chips, coupled with its existing relationship with Sony, made it the ideal choice. This decision highlights the importance of backward compatibility in the gaming industry and the value it brings to both gamers and console manufacturers.
