This may be news to you, but there is widespread perception that PS4 sales are slowing (which is a bit shortsighted, in my opinion, but I digress). Said panic has led many analysts to speculate that the PS5, which at this point is inevitable, will launch next year.
Take, for example, Amir Anvarzadeh, an analyst at Asymmetric Advisors Pte. Bloomberg reports that he predicts a PS5 launch next year, spurred by the slowdown in PS4 sales.
“There is more downside as we believe slowing growth in its games division signals a very likely PS5 launch for next fiscal year and the ensuing costs that come with the launch of a new platform,” he said.
I have a feeling that it may be the other way around—that sales are slowing down because PS4 is nearing the end of its life, and its follow up is around the corner, but what do I know, I’m not a financial analyst.
Regardless, that a PS5 is coming is an uncontroversial opinion to hold. Sony has filed patents that hint at the new console and how it might be compatible with the PS4, while we have enough evidence in terms of developer hirings and general rumors and speculation that point at the console launching some time next year.