News Sony's PlayStation Portal Handheld Device Continues to Exceed Expectations in Demand

Journalist Stephen Totilo interviewed Sony's vice president of product management, Hiromi Wakai, regarding the launch of the PlayStation Portal, a $200 handheld device enabling game streaming from the PS5.

While Sony has yet to disclose shipment figures, the Portal is in high demand, with most stores reporting sold-out stock.

"Although we don’t have any numbers to share, the demand has continued to exceed our expectation," stated Hiromi Wakai.

• Wakai elaborated that Sony aimed to deliver a "quality console experience" in a portable form factor, maintaining DualSense features and affordability.
• The device's simple feature set was designed to ensure compatibility with existing games without necessitating developer involvement, distinguishing it from traditional handheld consoles like the PlayStation Vita.
• Acknowledging the expected response to the Portal's announcement, Wakai noted that the project team always viewed it as a niche product.

"The initial discussions of this product started out from the question of how to expand the PS5 console game experience, not launch a separate handheld device," Wakai stated.

Regarding future plans, Wakai declined to disclose specifics but affirmed that Sony would continue shipping the Portal to meet user demand.

 

[Cedric]

Never really bother to get one. I'd just fire up my PS5. We all have too many luxury problems.

 

[ThunderBolt]

I think it's a completely useless device. I love sony, but I'm not going to be like crazy sonyboys and buy up everything the company offers

 

[Lucinator]

I think PS Portal is just an attempt to test the waters to enter the handheld market.