According to information posted by user KeplerL2 on the NeoGAF forum, the Sony PlayStation 6 will use the AMD RDNA 5 graphics architecture, but will not support its full feature set. This approach is not a surprise, because Sony has not previously implemented full versions of AMD architecture in its consoles, but has chosen only those technologies that have the greatest impact on games, while simultaneously controlling production costs.
A similar example already exists with the PlayStation 5 console, which in practice is a combination of the RDNA 1 architecture and certain RDNA 2 functions for ray tracing, instead of a complete RDNA 2 implementation. The same principle will be applied to the PS6, where the focus will be on the key elements of the RDNA 5 architecture, primarily on significantly improved ray tracing performance.
PS6 continues Sony’s strategy of selective technologies
Earlier estimates indicated that the raw graphics power of the PS6 console could range between 34 and 40 TFLOPS, while the ray tracing performance could be as much as six to twelve times better compared to the PS5. However, due to the increase in the cost of manufacturing processors and memory, Sony is forced to give up some of the advanced, but for games, less important functions of the RDNA 5 architecture.
Analyst David Gibson previously stated that Sony is also considering postponing the launch of the PS6 console. Due to the sudden increase in the prices of memory components, the release that was originally planned for 2027 could be moved to 2028 or even 2029. This would mean a significantly extended life cycle of the PlayStation 5 platform.
Mark Cerny revealed in earlier statements that the PS6 will have three key technological components. Neural Arrays will enable advanced AI calculations and multi-unit collaboration similar to a single AI system. Radiance Cores will be in charge of highly efficient real-time ray tracing and path tracing, while Universal Compression technology will reduce the load on the memory subsystem and pressure on the graphics memory.
Everything indicates that Sony continues a pragmatic approach with the PS6: focus on technologies that directly affect the quality and performance of games, while consciously renouncing the complete implementation of the latest architectures in order to keep the final price of the console as much as possible under control.