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‘North of a grand is the floor’: Analysts debate whether Steam Machine means PS6 and Xbox Helix will cost $1000+
Video Games Chronicle • • technology
Key Points:
- Valve announced the Steam Machine will be priced at $1,049 for a 500GB model and $1,349 for a 2TB model, acknowledging the price is higher than intended due to rising component costs.
- Analysts warn that next-gen consoles like PlayStation 6 and Xbox Project Helix will likely launch at higher prices than previous generations, potentially exceeding $1,000 due to increasing memory and storage costs.
- Opinions vary on whether Sony or Microsoft will charge over $1,000 for base models, with some experts suggesting premium versions may reach that price point while base models remain just under $1,000 for psychological and marketing reasons.
- Industry experts note that Sony and Microsoft’s stronger supply chain relationships may help them offset hardware costs better than Valve, possibly allowing next-gen consoles to be priced below $1,000 despite market disruptions.
- The next generation of consoles is expected around 2028, with component cost stability and inventory improvements potentially influencing final pricing closer to launch.
