Microsoft discontinues Xbox One while Sony makes new PS4s

It seems like Microsoft and Sony have completely different strategies to handling the shortage of next-gen consoles. Microsoft recently confirmed that they officially stopped manufacturing all Xbox One consoles at the end of 2020. Meanwhile, Sony just announced their plans to ramp up production for the PlayStation 4.

Due to the ongoing chip shortage, both companies currently face challenges to meet the high demands for next generation consoles. Although both Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 have been available since the end of 2020, it remains just as difficult today to acquire a copy of either.

The differing strategies Microsoft and Sony have to tackling this issue, however, may come down to one advantage Xbox has over PlayStation. While Xbox Series X remains difficult to produce in large quantities, the Series S is readily available across retailers. According to Xbox chief Phil Spencer, one reason is that Xbox is easily able to manufacture Series S chips.

We can actually build more of the Series S [chips] in the same [chip] die space as we can the Series X.

Phil Spencer

PlayStation takes one step forward and two steps back

Sony’s original plan was to discontinue PlayStation 4 production last year. However, the continuing shortage of PlayStation 5 consoles sparked the company to do the opposite. In fact, Sony states it will manufacture approximately one million PS4s by the end of this year.

Unfortunately, even with increased manufacturing, new PlayStation 4 consoles are also difficult to find in stores. Many retailers no longer order last-gen consoles, so the market surplus of PS4s does little to increase availability. For those still itching to get their hands on the last-gen PlayStation, Sony will sell you a PS4 Slim directly for $299.99.

What are your thoughts on the ongoing console shortage? How long do you think it will take for next-gen consoles to become more available? Share your thoughts with us down in the comments!

Via The Verge