PS5 Supplies Uncertain; Sony Dashes Hopes
The PlayStation 5 will remain barely available for a long time to come, at least judging by recent reports about Sony's plans.
The coronavirus pandemic continues, but - as is usually the case - people have managed to get used to the new situation. Though not everyone, as those interested in buying electronics are probably still gnashing their teeth. Recent reports will not improve the mood of customers complaining about shortages and high prices. Sony had to reduce production forecasts for PlayStation 5 from 16 million to 15 million by March 2022 (via Bloomberg). The company has not commented on the reports.
During last month's investor call, the company reported increasing problems with logistics and the availability of components needed to produce the consoles. As a result, sales of the PS5 - otherwise high - fell below Sony's expectations. The device was ahead of PlayStation 4 for a long time (taking into account sales in a certain time frame), but now the situation is slowly starting to turn around.
This is not the only and, unfortunately, probably not the last proof of the coronavirus influence on the technology market. Just the day before yesterday, Valve announced the delayed release of Steam Deck, and delivery times in the official Apple store indicate that even this company - so far seemingly insensitive to the effects of the pandemic - is beginning to struggle. Also Nintendo, which in theory has no reasons to complain, had to lower the projected sales of its hybrid console.
No one believes that the situation will improve in the near future, despite the steps taken by industry giants. Currently, the purchase of a PS5 borders on miracle.
