A Windows Central report has revealed that Microsoft is currently losing around $150 on every Xbox Series X|S console sold, a shortfall that will persist even after prices rise again in August. From 2 August, a 1TB Xbox Series X will cost $800, a steep price for hardware nearing its sixth anniversary, driven largely by a memory component shortage that industry commentators link to surging demand from AI manufacturers. Sony, Nintendo and Valve have all been forced into similar hardware price increases, and the situation is stoking concern about the cost and viability of next-generation consoles, particularly the PS6.

Push Square's editor argues that while Sony's purchasing power may cushion it somewhat, the memory crisis could scupper plans for a cheaper, more efficient next-gen console and handheld, making a $1,000-plus PS6 hard to justify. Component costs may not ease until 2030, raising the possibility of a delay, though a full restart of PS6 development is considered unlikely. The article warns this could trigger the worst console pricing crisis yet, with the writer expressing doubt that Sony's current leadership has the consumer-facing strength needed to build enthusiasm for an expensive, unwanted device during the generational transition.