For the first time, more people are using a PS5 console than a PS4, according to Sony. In a new look at the business of PlayStation, Sony noted that PS5 had more monthly active users when compared to PS4, with the combined playerbase now at 124 million users, as of March 31.
Sony said that it had 49 million monthly users each on PS5 and PS4, as of April 30, 2024. While it hasn’t provided exact figures on just how many people are now on PS5 compared to PS4, the accompanying slide does suggest that there has been a significant change here. Spending has also increased, with Sony noting that people were spending more on peripherals, services, and content.
It took over four years for the PS5 to surpass the PS4 in this category, but there are several reasons for this. The PS5 suffered from stock shortages when it first launched, and most games were available on both PlayStation platforms. This included several big sports titles and other AAA releases, which are generally considered to be some of the big drivers behind adopting new console hardware.
As the current console generation has continued, more games launching only for current-gen hardware and console exclusives, alongside various entry points for the PS5, have helped make it a more appealing purchase.
Looking ahead, Sony also commented on its next-gen gaming console during its business presentation. The company isn’t prepared to shift entirely to cloud gaming yet, as it says the majority of its users prefer “local execution” of games. Sony also commented on its live-service plans, saying that the company is feeling optimistic about Bungie’s Marathon ahead of its September launch, and that it doesn’t predict it to be another Concord.
