Despite significant progress, cloud gaming still lags behind local game installations in terms of quality. A new Sony patent proposes combining the advantages of both approaches, which could help reduce the size of installation files for PlayStation 5 and the upcoming PlayStation 6. According to the concept, the main executable files would run directly on the console, minimizing latency and reducing the need to expand internal storage.

The Relevance of Data Storage Issues

The growing demand for memory and SSDs from data centers and the artificial intelligence industry has driven up prices for these components. As a result, PlayStation owners with large game libraries often have to delete older titles to free up space, rather than purchasing additional storage for the PS5. Sony’s new patent offers a way to reduce file sizes without the drawbacks typically associated with cloud gaming.

The Essence and Benefits of the Patent

The document published on February 4, 2026, describes an alternative method for reducing the size of games for PS5 and potentially PS6. The core idea is to download only the most critical resources or the game launcher, while the main code runs on the console or another device, not on a server. This approach significantly reduces latency, which is especially important for competitive players who require instant response times.

The patent, titled “System and Method for Streaming Resource Delivery,” acknowledges that lower-quality textures and audio may be used at the initial stage. For the best experience, a high-speed internet connection will likely be necessary. Nevertheless, for many users, this could become a worthy alternative to cloud gaming without input lag.

Practical Implementation and Limitations

For games where precise timing is not critical, the main advantage is a significant reduction in installation size. The initial package could be as small as 100 MB instead of the usual 10–100 GB. As the game progresses, necessary files would be downloaded automatically, while unneeded resources would be deleted.

Unlike Xbox Series X owners, PlayStation users have more options for expanding PS5 storage, but high SSD prices often make gamers reconsider buying accessories. Sony’s hybrid cloud-local solution could become a clear advantage for the company’s future consoles.

Looking Ahead

Next-generation AAA games will likely require even more storage space. Sony’s patent offers a solution that addresses concerns about the potential high price of the PS6. Even if the manufacturer does not increase internal storage, the new technology may not be as practical if image and sound quality suffer. Reduced latency is a definite plus, but it remains unclear how much this will impact the overall user experience.