PlayStation announce new handheld device, Project Q

During May 2023’s PlayStation Showcase, Sony announced that it is working on a PlayStation handheld device called Project Q, designed to enhance the gaming experience for PS5 owners.

The Project Q handheld features an 8-inch HD screen, all the buttons and features of the DualSense wireless controller, and an LCD screen capable of running games at up to 1080p and 60fps over Wi-Fi.

While Sony did not disclose the exact release date or pricing, the Q handheld is expected to launch later this year.

PlayStation boss Jim Ryan said, “We will launch a dedicated device that enables you to stream any game from your PS5 console using Remote Play over Wi-Fi.”

The handheld will also include the highly acclaimed adaptive triggers and haptic feedback of the DualSense controller.

 Games played on the Project Q must be installed on a PlayStation 5 console, making it a companion device rather than a standalone gaming system like the Steam Deck or smartphones. However, Sony aims to upgrade their cloud gaming so there’s a possibility that cloud gaming could be added to the Q in the future.

The announcement follows rumours about Sony’s handheld device surfacing earlier this year, predicting many of its features including the reliance on Remote Play, the 8-inch LCD screen, the resemblance to the DualSense controller, and the maximum resolution and frame rate.

With Project Q, Sony is responding to the growing popularity of handheld gaming devices. While the Nintendo Switch has dominated the market, newer contenders like Valve’s Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally have emerged, offering more modern hardware for playing contemporary games.

For those eager to try streaming games from their PS5, Remote Play is already available on various platforms.

As Sony’s Project Q prepares to hit the shelves, gaming enthusiasts can look forward to a new way to enjoy their favourite PlayStation games on the go.