• The latest revelation in the FTC vs. Microsoft hearings see claims from the latter that a PS5 Slim console could arrive later this year.
• The information surfaced in Microsoft’s documents, with it noting that the new console could cost $399.
• Microsoft also predicts a handheld version of the PS5 for under $300.

After several revelations emerged during the FTC vs. Microsoft hearings, the latter is now anxiously awaiting a ruling on the matter, the outcome of which could determine whether it gets approval Stateside to acquire Activision Blizzard.

While Microsoft awaits said ruling, one final tidbit surfaced, as Microsoft’s documents revealed some predictions regarding its biggest gaming competitor Sony and the prospect of a PS5 Slim.

There have indeed been rumours of such a console in recent years, especially as it would follow the model of releases that Sony favours, but the company is yet to officially comment on the launch of a PS5 Slim.

According to Microsoft, however, we could see that device later this year.

“PlayStation likewise sells a less expensive Digital Edition for $399.99, and is expected to release a PlayStation 5 Slim later this year at the same reduced price point,” filed documents explained.

Whether the prospect of a PS5 Slim would be tempting to local gamers remains to be seen, especially as a slimmer version of the PlayStation 5 priced the same as the Digital Edition of the console does not really seem to add much value outside of Sony choosing to no longer manufacture the Digital Edition PS5.

Along with a slim version of the PS5, Microsoft had another prediction, as it said a handheld was also on the way from the Japanese company. “Sony is also anticipated to release a handheld version of PlayStation 5 later this year for under $300,” it noted.

Whether this is in reference to the Project Q handheld that was teased at the PlayStation Showcase in May is unclear, but a standalone device that can operate sans connection to a console would be a more interesting prospect than the PS5 Slim.

Either way, if the FTC vs. Microsoft hearing showed us anything, it is that Microsoft is always keeping tabs on PlayStation to see what its next move is.