Sony has introduced another internal revision to the PS5 Slim, making changes to the motherboard and other components that appear designed to reduce manufacturing expenses and extend the console's lifespan. The timing of these modifications remains unclear, though they seem to have entered circulation around the launch of limited-edition Marvel's Wolverine PS5 consoles. The redesign focuses primarily on longevity and repairability, addressing areas that could improve the console's durability over its lifetime.
Among the key upgrades, the revised motherboard now provides easier access to the CR2023 battery, while a streamlined internal layout reduces the risk of damage during repairs. Sony has adopted refinements from the PS5 Pro, including improved liquid-metal containment around the processor die and revised heatsink materials. These changes should maintain stable thermal performance during intensive gaming sessions and prevent the liquid metal from degrading over extended use. The company has also switched to a newer, lower-cost HDMI retimer chip, which cuts manufacturing expenses while enhancing display signal stability.
Cost Cuts Don't Translate to Lower Prices
These production improvements will likely lower the bill of materials and boost assembly yields at a time when component sourcing remains challenging. However, the cost savings have not benefited consumers. The PS5 Digital Edition launched at $400 in November 2020 but now costs $600, while the disc-drive model has jumped from $500 to $650. The PS5 Pro has risen even more dramatically, from $700 to $900. This pattern contrasts sharply with previous console generations, which typically became cheaper as manufacturing improved.
New Features for the Base Model
Sony is working to make the base PS5 more appealing as the holiday season approaches. The company recently introduced Quick Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-upscaling technology that delivers sharper visuals on standard PS5 consoles without requiring a Pro purchase. Currently, only two exclusive titles support the feature: Marvel's Wolverine and Ghost of Yotei. Sony has indicated that the technology will become available to more developers in the coming months, potentially giving base-model owners visual improvements comparable to what the Pro offers.