New details show that the improvements expected for the PlayStation 5 Pro processor may be limited by the future PS6. This is because Sony now wants to ensure that its future console will be compatible with games designed for the PS5 Pro.
As we learned a few days ago, the PS5 Pro's processor is expected to be just 10% faster than the current model's. Values that left some enthusiasts a little disappointed with the Japanese company's ambitions.
Sony's backwards compatibility system could limit the evolution of the PlayStation 5 Pro
The thesis that we now make known was recently raised on the social network X by Kepler. According to this source, Sony is developing the PS5 Pro with its successor's backwards compatibility system in mind.
The way Sony handles BC is very complex, and it requires the new HW to run at the same or higher clock speed, even if the new HW is faster at lower clock speeds.If they are using Zen6 dense cores for PS6, they can’t target 4GHz+ for the PS5 Pro as that could break BC.
— Kepler (@Kepler_L2) March 17, 2024
For those unfamiliar with the term, backwards compatibility will allow games designed for the PS5 Pro to also work on the PS6. Everything so that players don't have to discard all their games if they buy the new console.
It may seem a little strange that Sony is limiting the evolution of the PS5 Pro so that its games work on its successor. However, as Kepler points out, Japanese has a very complex backwards compatibility system.
Apparently, Sony intends for new hardware to work at similar or higher frequencies. This condition applies even if the new hardware is able to deliver superior performance at lower frequencies.
Additionally, he explains that if the PS6 has Zen6 architecture processors, Sony cannot look at frequencies of 4 Ghz or more on the PS5 Pro. This would break the backwards compatibility system used by the company.
Obviously, this information is just speculation, as are the characteristics circulating in specialized circles regarding the PlayStation 5 Pro. It is important to wait for the consoles to be presented to be sure about their potential.