Sony not too long ago launched an oddly lighter revision of the PlayStation 5, and it is now clear simply why the console is that a lot simpler to hold. YouTube creator Austin Evans has posted a teardown that reveals the revised PS5 Digital Edition (that’s, the no-disc mannequin) is utilizing a smaller, seemingly lower-cost heatsink. While this shaves a whopping 0.66lbs off the burden, it additionally raises the general temperature by a number of levels — not essentially a serious problem, however value noting in the event you both improve your SSD or stuff your system right into a crowded media cupboard.

There are subtler adjustments as properly, together with an easier-to-use stand screw and tweaked connections to the WiFi chip, though it is not clear if or how the wi-fi adjustments make a sensible distinction. It’s additionally unsure what number of of those adjustments translate to the disc drive model of the PS5.

The firm hasn’t formally defined its design decisions for the up to date PS5. As Evans speculates, nevertheless, the refreshed PS5 could also be a cost-cutting measure that displays classes discovered within the a number of months because the machine’s debut. Now that Sony is aware of how properly the cooling and different parts carry out, it is aware of the place it might probably afford to make use of cheaper, easier components.

The timing is apt. In its first-quarter earnings briefing, Sony told investors it was now not promoting the disc-based PS5 at a loss — this newest design may make the Digital Edition worthwhile that a lot sooner. While the selection will not thrill players with bitter recollections of overheating Xbox 360s (nevertheless unlikely a repeat is likely to be), it would play an necessary function in Sony’s long-term well being.