According to an exclusive report from Insider Gaming, Sony is reportedly planning to continue with a detachable disc drive design for its next-generation console, the PlayStation 6, launching it concurrently with the console itself. This move is seen as Sony's long-term strategy to reduce manufacturing and shipping costs during "uncertain times."
The concept of a detachable disc drive first appeared with the PlayStation 5 mid-cycle refresh, where Sony offered a digital-only console with an optional external disc drive to meet diverse market demands. According to sources, PS5 disc drive sales met all internal company targets, becoming a key reason for Sony to carry the design over to the PS6.
In the future, players will be able to choose between purchasing a "digital-only" PS6, a "traditional bundle" (console with disc drive), or upgrading later by buying the disc drive separately. Insiders suggest this allows Sony to cater to both physical collectors and purely digital players, while further easing inventory and logistics pressures. 
Furthermore, rumors indicate that the PS6's external design will be more streamlined than the PS5, focusing on maximizing efficiency and reducing weight to save on shipping space and costs. This aligns with Sony's ongoing hardware revision strategy. For instance, Sony is reportedly launching a new PS5 Slim this month, which will see its storage reduced from 1TB to 825GB and its weight further trimmed.
For gamers, the continuation of the detachable disc drive means physical games will still have a place in the next-gen console era. While digital game sales have steadily become mainstream, Sony clearly isn't ready to abandon the disc market, opting instead to accommodate both consumer habits.
It's currently unclear whether Xbox will also retain a disc drive in its next-generation console. However, industry observers generally believe Sony's approach will not only appeal to traditional physical game enthusiasts but also maintain flexibility amidst supply chain and cost pressures.
Official specifications, pricing, and launch dates for the PlayStation 6 have yet to be announced, but this disc drive strategy has already given the public a clearer expectation for the direction of the next-gen console.
via： Insider Gaming