Sony is testing a new Power Saver mode for its PS5 consoles, designed to reduce energy consumption during gameplay. This feature, revealed as part of a new PS5 system beta update, will scale back game performance to achieve lower power usage. According to Shuzo Kikuchi, vice president of product management at Sony Interactive Entertainment, supported PS5 games will offer reduced performance when the Power Saver mode is enabled. The specific games and performance impacts will be shared closer to the official launch.

The Power Saver mode is seen as aligning with Sony's environmental commitments and potentially preparing developers for future platforms, hinting at the possibility of a portable PlayStation console. The beta update also introduces the ability to pair a DualSense controller with up to four devices simultaneously and easily switch between them.

Impact Statement: The new Power Saver mode could significantly reduce PS5 energy consumption and support the development of future portable gaming devices.