Sony Quietly Urges PS4 Users to Upgrade to PS5 Ahead of Big 2026 Games

Sony is reportedly urging PlayStation 4 users to switch to PlayStation 5. That’s according to folks at Insider Gaming, who referred to a post on X claiming that users with PS4 consoles recently received a system message via PlayStation Direct, urging players to check out current PlayStation 5 deals. That’s another way of Sony saying that PS4 owners should jump before missing out on some of the biggest games coming in 2026.

The timing isn’t random, by the way. In mid-2024, the PlayStation ecosystem was still split nearly down the middle, with roughly 50 percent of players sticking with the PS4. That’s tens of millions of gamers still using a console that first launched back in 2013. Meanwhile, the PlayStation 5 has already been on the market for more than five years.

According to the message, Sony wants PS4 users to upgrade, as it wants them to catch up on recent releases and prepare for what’s next. The company has highlighted 2025 titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, ARC Raiders, and Ghost of Yotei, while also pointing to 2026 titles such as SAROS, 007 First Light, and Nioh 3. The message also appears to include a QR code, which reportedly leads users to the latest PS5 console deals.

On the surface, it feels like a friendly reminder. However, there’s likely more to it. Back in October 2025, Sony confirmed that certain PlayStation Network features for some PS4 titles will be switched off in 2026. That announcement quietly marked the beginning of the end for full PS4 support. Interestingly, Sony has also pushed a minor security update for the PS4 today, as reported by MP1st.

As far as nudging is concerned, Sony hasn’t officially confirmed anything as such, nor has it acknowledged the message or confirmed whether it’s part of a wider rollout. However, for PS4 users holding out, this may be the sign that the clock is now ticking away.

Are you still gaming on a PlayStation 4, or have you upgraded already? Let us know in the comments below.