Sony Eyes Handheld Gaming Boom with New Device Amid Workforce Cuts and Potential Kadokawa Acquisition
November 25, 2024
This acquisition could enhance Sony's gaming and anime portfolio, leveraging Kadokawa's popular IP.
Sony is reportedly developing a new handheld gaming device designed to play PS5 games natively, positioning itself against competitors like Nintendo's Switch and future Xbox handhelds.
Despite the PlayStation Portal's cloud streaming capabilities, it still requires a stable internet connection, which limits its portability compared to other devices.
There remains a strong market for portable gaming devices that prioritize performance, as evidenced by the success of the Steam Deck.
The PS Portal has exceeded sales expectations in North America, indicating a positive reception despite its limitations.
Sony's stock has seen a nearly 14% increase year-to-date, reflecting a favorable market performance amid challenges.
However, the company has faced significant challenges this year, including layoffs affecting about 900 employees, or 8% of its global workforce, and the closure of several studios.
These layoffs have impacted major PlayStation studios, including Insomniac and Naughty Dog, as well as Bungie, which is also owned by Sony.
To bolster its gaming division, Sony is considering acquiring Kadokawa Corporation, which owns FromSoftware and valuable franchises like Elden Ring.
Despite these challenges, Sony anticipates fiscal 2024 sales to reach $87.05 billion, surpassing analyst estimates.
In its fiscal second quarter of 2024, Sony reported consolidated sales of $19.44 billion, slightly below expectations, but exceeded profit forecasts.
Looking ahead, potential partnerships with companies like AMD and TSMC for chip production could support the launch of new gaming hardware, projected around 2027.
Summary based on 105 sources
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Sources

Forbes • Nov 25, 2024
Sony Is Developing A Handheld, Standalone PlayStation, Says Report
The Verge • Nov 25, 2024
Sony’s making a handheld console to compete with Nintendo and Microsoft
Bloomberg • Nov 25, 2024
Sony Working on New Handheld Console for PS5 Games to Rival Nintendo’s Switch
Mashable • Nov 25, 2024
New Sony handheld console planned: Everything we know