Sony Removes 8K Sticker From PlayStation 5 Retail Boxes

Since its original release in 2020, the PlayStation 5 has undergone several modifications, mainly in terms of hardware revisions. These revisions aimed at reducing the size and weight of the console, improving its cooling system, and making it more energy-efficient.

In August 2021, Sony released a minor hardware revision (the 1100 series), which reduced the size and weight of the heat sink and the overall system weight by 300 grams. This design required no screwdriver for the console stand. In August 2022, another hardware revision (the 1200 series) was introduced for both the base and digital versions of the PS5, which used a die shrink of the original System-on-Chip (SoC).

A major change came in the form of a slimmer version of the PlayStation 5, unofficially referred to as the PlayStation 5 Slim, announced in October 2023. This new model replaced both original versions of the system and featured additional USB ports and 1 TB of internal storage. The design of the console remained similar, with the plates on each side of the console now consisting of two pieces each instead of one big swappable plate. The top plate had a glossy finish, while the bottom plate had a matte finish, separated by a black line.

The Digital Edition of the slim model saw a $50 price increase, and its disc drive was made removable, allowing users to attach or detach it as needed. This made the digital and disc versions of the console more flexible and customizable according to users' preferences.

These modifications to the PlayStation 5 since its original release have contributed to making the console more user-friendly, versatile, and efficient, while also offering improved performance and a better gaming experience.

Sony removing the "8K" label from the new PlayStation 5 boxes could be attributed to several factors. It could be an admission that promoting 8K was not particularly relevant or beneficial, considering the limited availability of 8K content and compatible displays in the market. Another possibility is that Sony might be saving its true 8K capabilities for the rumored PS5 Pro, which is expected to release later this year. This updated console is speculated to have better support for 8K resolution.

It's important to note that the PlayStation 5 has been compatible with 8K displays since its launch, and there was a plan to enable 8K resolution output through a future software update2. However, the update has not materialized, and the only game that currently supports 8K resolution is the indie puzzle game "The Touryst." Most other games offer up to 4K resolution.

The change in packaging could be a way for Sony to realign its marketing strategy with the current state of the gaming industry and the limited demand for 8K gaming experiences. It could also be a move to emphasize the superior features of the upcoming PS5 Pro model. However, Sony has not provided a public statement on the removal of the 8K label, leaving users to speculate on the reasons behind the decision4.