Sony launches a redesigned PS5 console with a removable disc drive. Here's what else is new

Sony has made an official announcement regarding a new iteration of the PS5, equipped with a detachable disc drive and boasting 1TB of internal storage. This variant, often referred to as the “PS5 Slim,” is slightly more compact in terms of dimensions compared to the existing model and serves as a replacement for both the standard PS5 and the PS5 Digital Edition. In the United States, this fresh model will be priced at $499.99, inclusive of the disc drive, while the PS5 Digital Edition will be available at $449.99. The new PS5 exhibits a noteworthy reduction in overall volume, exceeding 30 per cent, and a weight reduction of up to 24 per cent (depending on the specific model chosen). Sony has introduced a side bulge in this version to accommodate the disc drive, which can be detached and replaced with a side panel. Sid Shuman, Senior Director of SIE Content Communications, describes the design nuances, mentioning, “There are four separate cover panels, with the top portion sporting a glossy finish, while the bottom retains its matte texture.” For those opting for the base PS5 Digital Edition, the Blu-ray disc drive can be added later, available for separate purchase at $79.99 (€119.99 / £99.99). Notable design changes include two slits on each side and the addition of dual USB-C ports at the front, as opposed to the current PS5’s single USB-C and USB-A ports. Additionally, a horizontal stand will be included with this new PS5 model, while a new vertical stand compatible with all PS5 models will be sold separately for $29.99 (€29.99 / £24.99 GBP). Both models of the new PS5 come with an increased storage capacity of 1TB, as compared to the 825GB found in the current PS5. The new PS5 model is set to be launched in November in the United States, available through select retailers and Sony’s PlayStation direct site, priced at $449.99 without a drive or $499.99 with one. According to Shuman, it will gradually become available globally in the subsequent months, eventually replacing the existing PS5 model once its inventory is depleted. In Europe, it will be priced at €449.99 for the Digital Edition and €549.99 with the drive, while in the UK, it’s available at £479.99 with the drive or £389.99 for the PS5 Digital Edition. This official announcement regarding the updated PS5 model follows months of leaks and reports from last year, which indicated Sony’s intentions to create a PS5 with a detachable drive. Additionally, Sony recently concluded its latest PS5 sale, featuring significant price reductions in various regions, including the UK, Germany, India, and others. (With inputs from agencies)