KEY POINTS

  • A Twitter user posted an image of a display sign at a Japanese retailer
  • According to the display sign, the store would no longer stock some PS4 variants
  • It was "due to the manufacturer ending production"

While the console will not be entirely gone, Sony is reportedly planning to stop manufacturing certain PlayStation 4 variants in Japan.

The latest information about the PS4 was shared on Twitter by Cheesemeister. The user posted an image of a display sign at a Japanese retailer informing customers that it would no longer stock some PS4 variants "due to the manufacturer ending production." Some of the PlayStation 4 systems reportedly affected by this include the 500 GB and 1 TB models of the Glacier White gaming console, as well as the 1 TB and 2 TB Jet Black iterations.

In December 2020, the official PlayStation Direct Store mentioned that it would no longer restock PS4 Pro consoles soon. It seemingly hinted that the manufacturing of the PS4 variant would discontinue. The statement was immediately taken down following press coverage.

Sony, which unveiled its new PlayStation 5 online last week, is skipping TGS altogether this year
Sony, which unveiled its new PlayStation 5 online last week, is skipping TGS altogether this year AFP / CHARLY TRIBALLEAU

Sony ceasing the manufacturing of the PS4 gaming console should not come as a surprise. Sony Interactive Entertainment President Jim Ryan mentioned previously talked about the company's belief in the jump between console generations. The Japanese gaming console maker would likely want to direct newcomers to PlayStation to the recently launched PS5.

The image shared on Twitter, as well as the signage at a retail chain revealing these details, seem to indicate that it is legitimate.

Sony has not yet released any statements related to the rumored ceasing of production. Fans are advised to take this information with a pinch of salt. However, PlayStation 4 users should not worry.

Sony said that it plans to provide support for the console for a few more years. The company has a lineup of titles scheduled for release on both PlayStation 4 and PS5. This is the first time the industry is hearing news about Sony ending the production of some PS4 variants.

As of writing, it is not yet clear if this move is exclusive in Japan or if it is going to affect other regions as well. Some of the PS4 variants specifically mentioned in the leak are no longer available in other areas so the impact could vary over different locations.

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