Rumors and leaks regarding Sony's code-named PlayStation 4 Neo have been coming for months now, but the arrival of a new type of PlayStation 4 console isn't the Neo, as some might have expected. Rather, it appears to be a slim version of the PlayStation 4, one that will replace existing PS4 models and serve as a counterpoint to the new, more powerful Neo (when it is officially unveiled, of course).
It all started earlier today when a Twitter user by the name of "shortman82" posted images of what appeared to be a new type of PS4 on the social media site, saying a listing for the console was found on the online auction site Gumtree.
At first, it wasn't clear if the console was the real deal, but soon enough, more images of the new model of the PS4 arrived on gaming forum NeoGAF. Many arguments about the authenticity of the pictures ensued, but the picture evidence seemed convincing, as images showing the console, its box and all of its various cords hit the web.
Then came a report from the Wall Street Journal that stated Sony would be rolling out a new, smaller PS4 soon in order to push down the console's base price and differentiate it from the upcoming PS4 Neo. The WSJ also reports that Sony has cut production on the original-style PS4 consoles, with a current lull in availability for the machine that may indicate it's on its way out.
Now comes an actual video of the new console booting up. Eurogamer tracked down the buyers of the PS4 Slim and paid them a visit, recording the video below in the process. Eurogamer says it will be sharing more details about the PS4 Slim later in the week.
It seems all but confirmed at this point that the PS4 Slim is the real deal. However, Sony might wait until its Sept. 7 event to confirm the console's existence alongside the unveiling of the PS4 Neo. Many of the Neo's specs have long been available online, but Sony hasn't bothered to clear the air outside of confirming that the Neo does, in fact, exist. It seems reasonable to assume the company will take a similar approach to this PS4 Slim leak.
It all makes perfect sense, of course. Microsoft is already well underway in carrying out a similar plan. The Xbox One S arrived on store shelves this month, and will largely replace the old, original model of Xbox One. Next year, Microsoft will release "Project Scorpio," the code name for a new Xbox One that is said to be the most powerful home gaming console ever made.
The move to create a cheaper PS4 Slim keeps Sony's machine at a competitive price point alongside Microsoft. Though Sony is far ahead of Microsoft in terms of console sales overall, Xbox did come out on top as the best-selling console in North America for the month of July. We'll update this post should Sony make any sort of official comment on the PS4 Slim leak.
