Rumors about new handheld gaming devices from PlayStation and Xbox have sparked interest in the gaming community. Speculation has been fueled by a YouTuber and further discussed by reputable journalists. The potential for a new handheld console aligns with the popularity of current portable gaming options like the Nintendo Switch and Valve's Steam Deck. Although no official announcements from Sony or Microsoft have been made, experts suggest that these companies may be exploring the concept given the market trends. Gamers are advised to take these rumors with caution until official news is released.

Are PlayStation and Xbox really creating new handheld consoles?

As of now, there is no official confirmation from Sony or Microsoft regarding the development of new handheld consoles. The rumors are based on industry speculation and should be treated as unconfirmed.

In the gaming industry's past, both Sony and Microsoft have had forays into the handheld market to varying degrees of success. Sony released the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2004, which enjoyed a warm reception, and later launched the PlayStation Vita in 2011, which had a more niche appeal. Microsoft, while not having released a dedicated handheld gaming device, has focused on portable gaming through its cloud gaming service, as part of Xbox Game Pass, allowing games to be played on mobile devices. The landscape of handheld gaming has been significantly shaped by Nintendo's persistent presence with devices like the Game Boy, DS, and the hybrid console, the Switch, as well as newcomers like the Steam Deck, which blend the line between handheld and desktop gaming experiences.