The subject of a potential successor to the PlayStation 3 is something that Sony bigwigs have not even begun debating yet, SCEI chief Kazuo Hirai has revealed.
Speaking during a chinwag with PC Impress Watch (translated by Eurogamer), the executive reiterated that the console maker’s targeting a 10 year life cycle for PS3, and as such indicated punters shouldn’t hold their breath for PlayStation 4.
"As regards home consoles, the PS3 was put into business in 2006, and it has a 10 year life cycle," said Hirai.
"This means that we aren’t even at the halfway point. There are certainly many more desirable first and third party titles coming out. As we announce and implement new initiatives on an annual basis, I still believe in the importance of improving the software and feature set of the PS3.”
He further added that PS3 and the forthcoming Next-Generation Portable (NGP) will be snuggling up in what the firm describes as a “new, co-operative partnership.” Indeed, Hirai noted this is where Sony’s focus lies for the foreseeable future.
"I think the value of the PS3 will continue to rise. Because of this, a near-future PS4 or next-generation home console is not something that we are even debating now. That is to say, we are still concentrating fully upon the PS3. Right now, I appeal to you to think of the PS3 and NGP as a new, co-operative partnership," he revealed.
PS3 launched in Japan and North America back in November 2006, with a European launch following in March 2007.