PS6 rumor: Intel reportedly rejected for the next-gen console — here's why

Sony’s PS5 Pro announcement didn’t exactly land with a bang — more like a fizzle. With a lukewarm reception from potential buyers, it’s clear the focus is already shifting to what PS56 could bring to the table.

According to a report from Reuters, AMD is, once again, stepping up to design the next-gen chip for Sony’s upcoming console.

An exclusive report revealed why AMD was chosen over Intel to design the chip for Sony’s upcoming PS6. The key reason? Backward compatibility. Sources close to the decision revealed that ensuring a seamless gaming experience between the PS6 and its predecessor was a top priority for Sony — something the company doesn’t want to fumble after past missteps.

Flashback to 2013: When the PS4 dropped, the lack of native backward compatibility with the PS3 was a massive disappointment for fans. Sony addressed this with the PS5 — and it looks like the company is determined to maintain that goodwill moving forward.

While the AMD deal feels fresh, insiders shared with Reuters that the agreement has been in place since at least 2022. Tensions between Sony and Intel reportedly stemmed from disputes over profit-sharing, with Intel wanting a bigger cut per chip sold. When asked about these negotiations, an Intel spokesperson declined to comment on discussions with Sony, but pushed back against the narrative that Intel "failed" to win the contract.

A long-term deal with Sony could have funneled upwards of $30 billion into Intel’s coffers, had it gone through. But in the end, AMD’s established relationship with Sony — and its experience designing chips for Microsoft’s Xbox — likely made it an easy decision for Sony to stick with the safer bet.