Sony has quietly introduced a modification to their PlayStation consoles to address a persistent hardware issue. The latest PlayStation models have been updated to improve internal components and resolve concerns that had discouraged some PS5 owners from storing their consoles vertically.
The adjustment primarily impacts the PS5 Slim and specific standard PS5 variants. Manufacturers have upgraded the liquid-metal thermal interface material (TIM) layout to reduce the risk of coolant leaks and enhance the long-term durability of the consoles.
The newer PlayStation 5 Slim models, identified by module codes CFI-2100/2200, now incorporate the same enhanced TIM technology found in the PlayStation 5 Pro.
This alteration involves replacing the liquid metal application between the APU and heatsink with engraved grooves or trenches to secure the metal more effectively and prevent leaks or migration.
This change aims to alleviate concerns among PS5 users who had observed potential liquid-metal leakage issues over time, especially when the console was vertically positioned or frequently moved.
Sony anticipates that this modification will significantly decrease reports of these issues and increase the reliability of PlayStation gaming for users.
Responses from PS5 owners on Reddit have been varied. One user mentioned adjusting their console horizontally due to this issue, expressing relief at the fix that allows them to now place it vertically for aesthetic reasons.
Another user highlighted the seriousness of the problem, noting the risk of liquid metal causing shorts on the circuit boards and acknowledging Sony’s discreet approach to resolving the issue.