Although Sony has come out with its own Slim version of the PlayStation 4 (PS4), it is said that it will be the PS4 Pro that will go up against Microsoft's Xbox One S console. With the upgrades on the two systems, both the PS4 Pro and the Xbox One S may reportedly be the interim releases before next-generation consoles arrive.

The PS4 Pro is scheduled to be released in November, though Sony has already officially announced the new console and its specs. Previously dubbed to be the PS4 Neo, the new PS4 Pro provides upgrades on both specs and design. One noted improvement found on the new system is its focus on graphics. The new Sony console upgrade will have a sharper resolution, improved frame rates, enhanced textures, and a new feature — virtual reality support. It is said that the new PS4 Pro is Sony's console accompaniment for its new PS VR system.

However, not all is convinced that the PS4 Pro has what it takes to be an interim release before the expected launch of the PS5. According to Forbes, even if the new Sony console takes Microsoft's Xbox One S head on, the latter may still come out on top. This is even if the Xbox One S only serves as a minor improvement for the original Xbox One since Microsoft is gunning for a major overhaul on its next release cycle — the yet-unofficial Project Scorpio.

Even if the Xbox One S is only serving as the slimmer version of the Xbox One console, the industry follower believes it still has some favorable improvements over the newer PS4 Pro. Supposedly, one noted advantage is Microsoft's add-on programs for its players, particularly the backward compatibility feature and the new Play Anywhere program. With these new features, the Xbox One S will be able to play classic titles and port games for the PC through the Windows 10 platform. This translates to more versatility when it comes to playing games.

Meanwhile, although the PS4 Pro may focus on its graphics specs, there are still some features missing on the Sony console, like Ultra HD Blu-Ray support. With the feature added to the Xbox One S, players will be able to take advantage of "true" 4K gaming. However, it is said that while the PS4 Pro may be the in-between release before the PS5, the Xbox One S is only a slimmer Microsoft console. Players will have to look forward to Project Scorpio first, as this is more likely the interim release before the anticipated Xbox Two.