Well-known industry insider Tom Henderson reported today on Insider Gaming that Sony is preparing a new PlayStation handheld device, codenamed Q Lite. According to Henderson’s sources, the Q Lite (awful name, even for a codename) will require a PlayStation 5 to function, as it is not a cloud-streaming device, opting to focus on PlayStation’s Remote Play feature instead. Which might explain why Sony dropped a fresh ad for the feature on its YouTube channel just last week.
Insider Gaming’s sources also relayed early word on some hardware specs; Q Lite will support up to 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second, and will require an internet connection to function. It is also said to look very similar to PS5’s DualSense controller, only with a large 8-inch LCD touchscreen in the middle. Back in November of 2021, Video Games Chronicle reported on a Sony patent for something that, in hindsight, appears to be an early concept of the Q Lite. A couple of months later, Game Rant reported on a separate Sony patent for a controller with collapsible joysticks – could that be for this as well? The new handheld is also rumored to include the PS5’s signature adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, as well as other standard features like volume buttons, speakers, an audio input jack, and more.
Finally, Insider Gaming and Henderson added that the Q Lite is currently in the quality assurance phase and is scheduled to launch after the rumored detachable disc drive PS5, which he says is coming later this year, but before the similarly rumored PS5 Pro, which he says is scheduled for holiday 2024. So, perhaps early 2024 for the Q Lite?
Wow! For starters, I never believed that Sony would jump back into the handheld gaming market, but then again, is that really what this is? I’m not sold on the idea of it only supporting Remote Play, but we will have to wait for an official announcement from Sony to see if there is more than meets the eye with Q Lite. And for everyone’s sake, please pick a much cooler name for the final product.
