Thanks to a tip off from a reader, we now know that there’s two new Sony PlayStation 5 models registered in the SIRIM database. These two models appear likely to be minor hardware refreshes of the console.
While there’s not much information from the two SIRIM listings, what we do know based off it is that they’re video game consoles from Sony. The two model numbers meanwhile, CFI-1118A and CFI-1118B, are likely to be the regional model numbers of the PlayStation 5 with a new wireless module in it.
For context, back in May it was reported that Sony was looking to update their gaming console with the newer AW-XM501 wireless module in it. This revised model bears the model number CFI-1115A and will likely feature stronger peak antenna gain, essentially increasing its WiFi coverage area. It won’t be an upgrade in terms of supported standards though; the original console already supports WiFi 6 out of the box.
Furthermore, CFI-1118A and CFI-1118B follow the past naming scheme Sony has used for the PlayStation 5 in Malaysia. The global model had the model number CFI-1015A and CFI-1015B for the console with the Blu-ray player and digital edition respectively at launch. Malaysians meanwhile might’ve noticed that local PlayStation 5 consoles use the model numbers CFI-1018A and CFI-1018B instead. This means that the switch from CFI-XX15 to CFI-XX18 for the console is something Sony has done before.
It’s unlikely that we’ll see this being a PS5 Pro or Slim seeing as the PlayStation 5 only launched recently, which means we can expect the same custom AMD Zen 2 processor and RDNA 2 GPU in it, as well as the speedy 825GB SSD in it. As for why the change in wireless module, it could be a way for them to address previous issues with WiFi connection on the Playstation 5. A quick search on the PlayStation subreddit will show you plenty of folks struggling to get the WiFi to work properly on the console.
Incidentally, since Kevin’s initial tweet, the two listings for CFI-1118A and CFI-1118B on the SIRIM database are currently no longer there. As for if and when these revised units will officially launch though, you’ll have to wait for word from Sony Malaysia.
Thanks @KevinNgTK for the tip!
