Sony reportedly made a PlayStation 5 with a removable disk drive

A PlayStation 5 with a removable disk drive is reportedly in the works by Sony for launch around September next year.

The report, by Insider Gaming, suggests that the console will otherwise have nearly identical hardware to current PS5 models, with the only difference being the removable drive itself and an additional USB-C port to plug into.

There’s also the suggestion that this new console will be sold on its own and with the removable disk drive included.

Why would Sony do this when it already has two PS5 models on the market, and one already without a disc drive? Depending on how this model is marketed and introduced, it can make a lot of sense.

As PS5 production costs rise – and Sony decides to pass those costs on to the consumer – the company is likely looking for ways to streamline its manufacturing process.

Focusing on a single PS5 model in the future – with the option of an additional drive for those who want it – makes sense and could save costs from having two additional separate production lines.

As the video game industry continues to move away from physical media, it would also make sense to focus on a discless model as standard – with the extra drive, an extra you can pay for if you want.

Finally, the option would also likely act as a point of differentiation between Sony and Microsoft, which only offers a discless version of its latest consoles in the Xbox Series S, which is underpowered compared to its big brother the Xbox Series S. X series.

Eurogamer has contacted Sony for comment.