To restock the PlayStation: Sony is also willing to pay you money

Sony is offering PlayStation 5 owners up to $400 in cash for returning the console, in an unusual direct-to-consumer move. The background: a severe hardware shortage ahead of the GTA 6 launch and dramatic price increases in Israel and worldwide.

Sony has directly approached users of the PlayStation App and offered to buy back their PlayStation 5 consoles for up to $400 in cash deposited into their bank accounts. This is an unusual step, as trade-in programs are typically managed by external retail chains. The offer, revealed on the ResetEra forum, is conducted in partnership with the refurbished goods platform Back Market. According to the terms, users who submit a standard PS5 console in working condition with two original controllers will receive direct payment after device inspection. This represents a refund of about 80% of the original console's launch price of $500. Industry analysts estimate that Sony is preparing for a severe hardware shortage ahead of the GTA 6 launch and the holiday shopping season. Buying used consoles allows the company to refurbish them and return them to shelves as a discounted alternative. In Israel, prices for the Pro model have surged to 6,800 shekels, and in the US, used Pro devices are selling for up to $1,400.