Sony May Cut PlayStation 6 RAM to 24GB Amid Memory Shortages

Sony executives have admitted that the launch timing for the PlayStation 6 remains undecided. This uncertainty stems from ongoing global memory shortages that are impacting the supply chain. The company is currently evaluating how to proceed with the next-generation console release amidst these component constraints.

Leaker suggests memory bus could drop to 128-bit to lower bill of materials

According to speculation from AMD leaker KeplerL2, Sony may reduce the PlayStation 6 RAM to 24GB and the memory bus to 128-bit. These changes would represent a significant cutback from previous generations. The leaker suggests that keeping the SSD at 1TB is the only other reasonable adjustment Sony could make.

Reducing the memory bus width could lower the bill of materials by approximately $60 at current G7 prices. It also allows Sony to harvest memory controller defects, which improves the yield rate for the system-on-chip. Developers reportedly prefer having 24GB of RAM with slightly lower performance over other potential cutbacks.

KeplerL2 argues that nerfing the specifications so drastically defeats the purpose of releasing a next-generation system. The leaker posted these concerns on the NeoGAF forums, questioning the strategic value of such reductions. The comments highlight a tension between cost management and maintaining the expected performance leap for consumers.