Tag: sony

January 24, 2025
Sony Stops Production of Recordable Media, Ending Blu-ray Era
Sony has made the big announcement that it will stop producing recordable media by February 2025. This ends the production of Blu-ray Discs, MiniDiscs, and MiniDV cassettes. The company confirmed this news in January 2025, pointing out that the demand for physical media has been going down as digital media becomes more popular.
What Products Will Be Affected?
The discontinuation affects several Blu-ray recordable formats, including BD-RE and BD-R across 11 different models. Additionally, the MiniDiscs used for audio recordings, such as the “MDW80T” and “MMD-140B,” along with MiniDV cassettes (including the 70-minute versions and multi-packs), will also be discontinued. While there is still some stock available at Sony stores, there are no plans to introduce any replacement products.
Why Is This Happening?
Sony pointed to the growing popularity of video streaming services, cloud storage, and other digital technologies as the key reasons behind this decision. The company recognized that the market is changing, with physical media being replaced more and more by digital options. The first hints of this shift came in July 2024 when Sony shared its intentions to wind down its storage media business. By January 2025, they confirmed the full stop of production and thanked customers for their loyalty over the years.
What Does This Mean for the Industry?
This move by Sony highlights the fast decline of physical media in a world that prioritizes digital formats. While some fans and collectors might be sad about losing these products, it reflects a broader industry trend towards digital distribution. Sony’s message stressed their appreciation, declaring, “There will be no successor models.”
Sony played a significant role in making Blu-ray technology popular, especially through the PlayStation 3, which served as a cost-effective Blu-ray player. This announcement marks the close of an important chapter in the history of physical storage formats, signifying the ongoing shift in the industry toward digital media.
Tags: Blu-ray, MiniDisc, sony
January 17, 2025
Sony Cancels Two More Live Service Games: What You Need to Know
According to a report by Jason Schrier from Bloomberg, Sony has scrapped two unannounced live service games following “a recent review.” One of these projects was a live service version of God of War, which was being developed by Bluepoint Games and had been in the works for at least a couple of years before Sony decided to cancel it.
Bluepoint’s Notable Works
Bluepoint is known for their work on the Demon’s Souls remake, the remaster of Shadow of the Colossus, and The Uncharted Collection for the PlayStation 4. The second significant project was under development at Bend Studio, which is famous for titles like Syphon Filter and Days Gone.
Future of the Studios
Sony has not confirmed if there will be any job cuts but stated that it has no plans to close down the studios. They mentioned they are “working closely with Bend and Bluepoint to determine what are the next projects.” The company aims to “ensure there is minimal business impact.”
Changes in Live-Service Game Plans
In 2023, Sony revealed it was developing at least twelve live-service games (via The Verge) based on its well-known franchises. However, by the end of that same year, Video Games Chronicle reported that this number had been reduced to six.
Starting off 2024, Sony achieved a successful launch with Helldivers 2. Although the game faced various controversies, it effectively resolved them and sold over 12 million copies. Another live service title they released in 2024, Concord, unfortunately, became one of the biggest failures in gaming history, being removed from all online platforms just two weeks after its release.
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Tags: God of War, Helldivers 2, sony
January 16, 2025
Sony Xperia 5 V Android 15 Update Now Available
Last week, Sony started releasing the Android 15 update for its previous flagship, the Xperia 1 V. Meanwhile, users of the Xperia 5 V, which is a close relative, have had to be patient but are now also getting the Android 15 update.
Update Details
Similar to the Xperia 1 V, the Xperia 5 V’s OTA update is a compact package of 1052.4 MB, identified by the model number “Version 67.2.A.2.41”. Sony’s support page for the Xperia 5 V highlights the improvements that the Android 15 update will bring to this model.
Feature Differences
While the Android 15 update for the Xperia 1 V included a new option to set the display to its native 4K resolution, this feature is missing from the Xperia 5 V’s Android 15 version, as it only has a FHD+ screen.
Source:
Link
Tags: sony, Xperia 1 V, Xperia 5 V
January 14, 2025
Sony Patent for AI Input Prediction to Boost Gaming Experience
On July 6, 2023, Sony submitted a fresh patent under the designation WO2025010132, which was made public on January 9, 2025. This patent outlines a system powered by AI that aims to foresee player inputs by merging data from cameras and controllers to monitor hand movements and actions. The positioning of the camera is adaptable, with possibilities for it to be built into controllers, TVs, VR headsets, or various other devices.
Real-Time Processing
The AI analyzes the partial data as it comes in, executing predicted actions while taking into account context-specific details from game engines, like character locations or movements of enemies. A major benefit of this innovation is its ability to greatly lessen latency, which allows for more accurate and smooth inputs, especially in fast-moving games. Moreover, it could assist in avoiding accidental inputs that may occur from repeatedly pressing a button.
Anticipated Actions
For example, if a player slightly raises their thumb, the AI might predict the move and cause the character to jump over an obstacle before the button is entirely pressed. In a similar vein, when a weapon is aimed, the AI could refrain from firing if there isn’t a target nearby. However, mistakes can happen, and the technology might sometimes misread inputs, which could result in unintended actions.
Mixed Reactions Online
Views on platforms like Reddit are mixed. Numerous users consider Sony’s new tech as a hopeful fix for latency problems and a way to promote new gameplay mechanics. Nevertheless, some skeptics mention that similar technologies are already in use, raising doubts about whether this patent marks a true breakthrough or is just a refined version of what exists.
For instance, rollback netcode, common in contemporary fighting games like Street Fighter V and Mortal Kombat 11, also predicts player inputs to lessen delays in online play. When predictions are right, the game runs smoothly; if they’re off, the actions are corrected later. While Sony’s idea is not entirely unprecedented, it still offers potential for improving gaming experiences by making inputs more accurate and gameplay more enjoyable.
Future Implementation
The technology is anticipated to appear in games made by Sony’s own studios. However, it is still unclear whether it will be used on the PlayStation 5 or saved for the next-generation PlayStation 6. The possible availability of this technology for third-party games is also still uncertain at this point.
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Tags: AI-powered gaming, PlayStation 5, sony
January 10, 2025
Sony Xperia 1 V Android 15 Update: New 4K Display Setting
After delivering the Android 15 update to its current flagship model, the Xperia 1 VI, several months ago, Sony is now focusing on its 2023 flagship, the Xperia 1 V. The tech giant has started to roll out the stable Android 15 update to owners of the Xperia 1 V.
Update Details
As noted by YTECHB, users in Europe and the US can now access the update. This OTA update, identified by the version number “67.2.A.2.41,” has a size of only 1061.5 MB, showcasing how lightweight Sony’s user interface is. Sony has officially outlined the enhancements that will come with the update for the Xperia 1 V, which are as follows:
New Features
Moreover, users have reported the inclusion of a setting that allows for a full-resolution display, enabling the Xperia 1 V to operate at its maximum native resolution of 1644 x 3840. On another note, although there have been some rumors suggesting that the Android 15 update is rolling out to the Xperia 5 V as well, this seems to be incorrect. Most users of the Xperia 5 V have not yet received the update at the time this was published. We will keep you informed about any changes on that front.
Tags: Android 15, sony, Xperia 1 V
January 7, 2025
Sony to Adapt Popular Game Franchises into Movies
At Media Days, which is the special event before CES 2025, Sony disclosed its next steps to grow popular PlayStation franchises on January 6. The company shared its intentions for movie and series adaptations of various games, such as Helldivers, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Ghost of Tsushima.
Expanding the Universe
These initiatives are part of Sony’s strategic goal to engage current fans and draw in new viewers. To achieve this, PlayStation Productions is joining forces with Sony Pictures and reputable anime and media partners like Crunchyroll and Aniplex.
From Game to Screen
Helldivers 2, which launched in February 2024, has quickly become a highlight of the year. Players take on the role of elite Helldivers who battle alien threats to safeguard the galaxy and maintain the existence of “Super Earth.” Now, this franchise is making its way to theaters. Sony has stressed its intention to honor the original, aiming to recreate the game’s dynamic action and witty humor. The film is still in the preliminary development phase, and it’s uncertain if it will be live-action or animated.
Exploring New Stories
The treasured open-world game Horizon Zero Dawn, which takes place in a post-apocalyptic setting filled with mechanical beasts, is also being turned into a film. Sony is collaborating with Columbia Pictures to explore in more detail the background of its main character, Aloy. Similar to the Helldivers project, this adaptation is still in the early stages, with no visuals or stylistic details disclosed yet.
A Tale of Honor
Ghost of Tsushima is an action-adventure game set in feudal Japan, where players follow the journey of Jin Sakai, a samurai protecting Tsushima during the Mongol invasion of 1274. The narrative highlights his inner struggle between adhering to the samurai code and adopting unconventional “ghost” strategies. Sony is planning both a film and an anime series for this renowned title. The anime, which is meant to enhance the historical Japanese backdrop, is expected to launch on Crunchyroll in 2027.
Source: Link
Tags: Helldivers, PlayStation, sony
November 26, 2024
PS5 Accessories in Black Expected to Launch Soon, Leak Reveals
According to a French article on Dealabs by the well-known leaker billbil-kun, who has a good track record for leaks like the pricing of the PlayStation Anniversary Edition and the design of the PS5 Pro, Sony seems to be getting ready to launch black versions of its PlayStation 5 accessories. The items that are rumored to be included are:
Accessory Color Changes
Currently, all these accessories are only sold in white, apart from the DualSense Edge Controller, which has also been offered in gray due to the limited anniversary edition. Billbil-kun suggests that we might see the announcement for these new color options in about a month, although there has been no exact date shared. The prices for these black accessories are likely to be the same as the white ones, which has left many PlayStation enthusiasts feeling let down, as they already think the accessories are too expensive.
Pricing Concerns
This news comes from billbil-kun via Dealabs, making it something to keep an eye on for fans of the PlayStation brand.
Source: Link,Link
Tags: DualSense Edge Controller, PlayStation 5, sony
November 18, 2024
PS5 Pro vs PS5: Energy Efficiency and FPS Boost Comparison
The Sony PlayStation 5 Pro hit the market on November 7, retailing for $699.99 in the United States. This model, priced $200 more than the original PS5, boasts a significant upgrade in GPU performance, thanks to Sony’s unique PSSR upsampling technology. While it retains the same Zen 2 CPU, it has a 10% higher clock speed and an additional 2 GB of DDR5 RAM, among other enhancements. These features are expected to improve the gaming experience, making it noticeably better for both PS5 Pro-optimized and standard PS5 games.
Power Consumption Insights
As expected, the PS5 Pro’s enhanced capabilities come with increased power usage. Digital Foundry has observed a slight yet noticeable difference in energy consumption when comparing the base PS5 to the PS5 Pro. Interestingly, the PS5 Slim appears to have a less efficient SoC, leading to higher power consumption than the original PS5.
When testing Elden Ring in “Quality” mode, the PS5 Pro’s power draw ranges from 228 to 230 W, while the standard PS5 uses less, around 215 to 218 W. The PS5 Slim stands out in this test, as it consumes nearly the same amount of power as the PS5 Pro, despite being built with a 6 nm SoC that should ideally use less energy.
Game Performance Comparisons
In Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, the PS5 Pro consumes over 230 W, while the base PS5’s usage varies between 200 and 216 W. The PS5 Slim again shows higher power consumption, deviating from the expected trend.
In F1 24 with “Quality” mode activated, the PS5 Pro’s power draw climbs above 230 W, peaking at around 240 W. This uptick in energy consumption is aligned with noticeable improvements in graphics quality, better ray tracing, and more stable frame rates. According to Digital Foundry, the PS5 Pro achieves a performance boost of 30-35% in Elden Ring’s “Quality” mode, despite the game not being specifically enhanced for the Pro version. This leads to frame rates consistently above 50 FPS, while the original PS5 experiences frame rates that fluctuate in the low-to-mid 40s, sometimes dipping into the high 30s.
Impressive Energy Efficiency
The performance metrics for Elden Ring are striking, considering the console only needs about 12 W more energy, or 5.5%, to deliver a performance increase of up to 35%.
For those interested in the ray tracing enhancements, Alan Wake 2 is a prime example of the PS5 Pro’s capabilities. Digital Foundry highlights the effective ray-traced reflections in the 30 FPS RT mode. Likewise, F1 24 benefits from ray tracing reflections and RT Ambient Occlusion, adding to the features available in the base PS5 version.
For more detailed information regarding the upgrades offered by the PS5 Pro, including PSSR, be sure to check out Digital Foundry’s review linked below.
Buy the Sony PlayStation 5 Slim on Amazon
Digital Foundry on YouTube, Wccftech
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Tags: Gaming Performance, PlayStation 5 Pro, sony
November 10, 2024
Sony PlayStation 5 Pro Delay Indefinitely in India
Sony has postponed the release of the PlayStation 5 Pro in India due to the unavailability of the telecom spectrum for Wi-Fi 7 in the country. This gaming console operates on the 6GHz frequency band necessary for its IEEE 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7) certified network radios.
Official Confirmation
In a statement sent to High Chaos Run, Sony stated that the "PS5 Pro will not be offered in certain countries (including India at this time) where the 6GHz wireless band used in IEEE 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7) is not permitted yet."
Regulatory Delays
As per a report from Business Standard, India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has delayed its decision regarding this spectrum allocation and has until 2027 to make a final decision.
Future Spectrum Use
Sources quoted by the Financial Express have mentioned that India plans to designate the upper segment of the band (6425-7125 MHz) for telecommunications companies for their 5G and 6G services. Moreover, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) utilizes this network for satellite communications and has raised concerns about potential interference if the band is allocated for telecom purposes.
Tags: PlayStation 5 Pro, sony, Wi-Fi 7
November 9, 2024
Sony Reports PlayStation Network Growth Amid PS5 Sales Decline
Sony has recently begun to sell the PlayStation 5 Pro (PS5 Pro) openly, after showcasing the console in mid-September. To put it simply, the PS5 Pro is no longer facing the stock problems that affected the PS5 during its early years. Nevertheless, the rise in availability of consoles like the PS5 Slim (curr. $449.99 on Amazon) has not led to better sales numbers.
Sales Fluctuations
In fact, Sony has announced a notable decline in PS5 hardware sales when compared year-on-year. As per Tom Warren from The Verge, hardware sales reached 4.9 million in the second quarter of Sony’s prior financial year. Following that, it managed to sell 8.2 million units in the third quarter before falling back to 4.5 million units in Q4.
Recent Performance
In stark contrast, Sony reported that it sold 2.4 million PS5 units in the first quarter of FY24, indicating a 27% decrease from the previous year. Although the company has shown better performance in Q2, its hardware sales remain 22% below the figures from 2023. Overall, expectations are that Q3 will be a stronger quarter, especially with the addition of PS5 Pro sales.
Game Sales Growth
On the other hand, game sales have surged by 28% during the same timeframe. Additionally, the number of active PlayStation Network users has climbed by over 8%, increasing from 107 million to 116 million. However, it’s important to note that this number is still below the 123 million monthly active users that Sony reported in Q3 FY2023.
Sony via Tom Warren, Tamara Bitter (Unsplash) – Image credits
Tags: gaming sales, PS5 Pro, sony