The latest changes in the United States economy and foreign relations, no thanks to President Donald J. Trump, are sending shockwaves across the tech industry, with gamers already fearing what is coming for Sony's next-gen console.
While there are no announcements or teasers yet for the PlayStation 6, many fans are already fearing the massive pricing that could potentially arrive.
At present, the global gaming industry, particularly the United States, are already suffering from the tariffs, which first took effect last Saturday, with speculations that the PlayStation 5 is set to deliver a price hike arising because of it.
Fans Fear PS6 Price Hike
President Trump's are causing chaos in different industries, including the gaming world. In a PS5 subreddit, users are now saying that they are expecting console prices to shoot up in the coming weeks because of it.
One fan claimed that they are "scared" of how much the PlayStation 6 will cost once it arrives, particularly as Sony is a foreign company that is importing their technology to the United States. Not only that, Sony is also known for using components from Foxconn for the PlayStation 5, with its manufacturing based in both China and Japan, which are subject to the new import tax.
The fans have discussed that products coming from China and Vietnam would be subject to around 50%, and as mentioned by 9to5Mac in their recent report, the tariffs against China-made products will rise to 54% come April 9.
Its first effect would be felt with the current generation console of the company, the PS5, which is set to markup its prices once its current stocks run out.
PS6 Price Hike Coming Because of Trump?
Based on the fans' speculations, the PS5 would cost users up to $750 for the 2024-released PS5 Slim, which is the refreshed version of the console. Currently, the PS5 Slim sells for $499 and is not yet affected by Trump's tariffs in the US.
On the other hand, the PS5 Pro consoles is speculated to rise to a whopping $1,350 from its current selling price of $699.99, and this would be more expensive by as much as $650.
The fate of the PlayStation 6 remains largely unknown as of writing, but because of the current tariffs that are taking effect, it is expected to be significantly affected in the future when it does become available.
Players may no longer expect the PS6 to be at around $499.99 only or the same as the PS5's introductory selling price five years ago.
