Kickstarter Campaign Introduces $39 AI-Enhanced PS5 Add-On Promising Up to 9°C Exhaust Temperature Reduction

A Kickstarter campaign is making waves with its innovative PlayStation 5 cooling unit, aimed at addressing the notorious overheating issues and the risks of rear I/O melting. When I last checked, the campaign had already amassed $89,000, with hopes of reaching a stretch goal of $125,000. You can snag the cooling unit starting at $39.

This intriguing add-on, named the Arctic PS5 cooler, claims the title of the world’s first AI-driven PS5 cooler. It’s designed as a clip-on vent that attaches seamlessly to the rear exhaust of your PS5. Depending on the model, it features either four or six fans that actively work to dissipate heat. Powered through a single USB port, it includes a pass-through USB port, ensuring you don’t lose any valuable ports on your console.

The creators behind this cool Kickstarter project, SCRY, are rolling out three variants tailored for each PS5 version. They’ve got options for the original PS5, which they amusingly nickname the “fat” model, the PS5 Slim, and the recently released PS5 Pro. The Pro and Slim models are outfitted with four fans, strategically placed with three at the top and one at the bottom, while the “fat” version comes equipped with six fans for enhanced cooling.

On their campaign page, SCRY frequently emphasizes their use of “smart thermal AI” that dynamically adjusts fan speeds according to the PS5’s internal temperature. Sound familiar? It’s reminiscent of how PC fans have been managed for years. Nevertheless, the plan is for these fans to kick into high gear once the temperature hits 50°C, ensuring the console remains as cool as can be.

SCRY claims their cooling accessory can slash the temperature by a notable 30% compared to the standard performance, dropping from a peak of 64°C to a more manageable 55°C. Thermal imaging displayed on their site supports their claim, revealing a 9°C reduction at the hottest part of the PS5’s rear—the ethernet port.

The aim here is clear: to stave off any overheating troubles on Sony’s latest gaming giant. Last year, whispers were rampant about overheating problems surfacing during certain games, Final Fantasy XVI being a case in point. In rare cases, overheating has reportedly led to the melting of rear connectors on the PS5.

Beyond just cooling, SCRY is also shining a spotlight on a Gen 4 M.2 SSD equipped with a heatsink as part of their Kickstarter rollout.

Moreover, their main campaign page hints at a stretch goal set at $125,000, promising a complimentary “vertikal” universal PS5 stand when achieved. Current stretch goals for $75,000 and $100,000 are already laid out, with further announcements anticipated upon unlocking.