Sony is reportedly exploring the possibility of re-entering the handheld console market, fueling speculation about a potential successor to the PlayStation Portable (PSP) or PS Vita. this renewed interest comes as the company appears to be closely monitoring consumer anticipation for Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2.

Intriguing Survey Sparks Speculation

Adding fuel to the fire, Sony has reportedly distributed a survey to select PlayStation gamers, probing their interest in the Nintendo Switch 2. The survey delves into specific aspects of Nintendo’s new console,asking questions such as: What aspects of the Nintendo Switch 2 are you most interested in? and What do you think about the Switch 2 pre-order approach?

The specificity of thes questions, initially revealed by leaker eXtas1s, suggests that Sony is seriously considering its strategy in the handheld gaming arena.

playstation Portal: A Toe in the Water?

Sony’s current offering in the handheld space,the PlayStation Portal,streams games via PS5 Remote Play and cloud services. Though, many fans are hoping for a dedicated handheld console capable of playing games natively, similar to the Nintendo Switch 2.

The Competition Heats Up

The handheld market is poised for important activity. While Sony explores its options, Microsoft is reportedly partnering with Asus to create an officially licensed Xbox handheld, perhaps similar to the Asus ROG Ally. This device is expected to offer a different approach, focusing on PC-like functionality with access to Xbox games.

Nintendo Switch 2: Launch and Pre-order Delays

The nintendo Switch 2 is slated for release on June 5, 2025. However, pre-orders in the U.S. have been delayed due to tariff assessments. Nintendo released a statement saying: Pre-orders for Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S.will not start April 9, 2025 in order to assess the potential impact of tariffs and evolving market conditions. Nintendo will update timing at a later date. The launch date of June 5, 2025 is unchanged.

Industry Analysis: A Shift in Gaming Landscape

The potential entry of both sony and Microsoft into the dedicated handheld market signals a significant shift in the gaming landscape. For years, Nintendo has dominated this sector, but the competition could drive innovation and offer consumers more choices.The success of any new handheld will depend on factors such as game availability, price point, and unique features.

Sony may be the only major video game company without a dedicated handheld console soon.

Industry Analyst