Sony to release PS4 after Microsoft's next-gen console

President and CEO of Sony Corporation Kaz Hirai has suggested that the PlayStation 4 may be released after--not before--Microsoft's next-gen console.

Speaking to British publication The Times (full article requires subscription), Hirai noted that it would make more sense for Sony to wait until after Microsoft releases its next-gen console.

"Why go first when your competitors can look at your specifications and come up with something better?" Hirai said in response to a question about next-gen consoles.

Hirai's sentiments are in direct contrast to reports from last week that suggest Sony is looking to release the PS4 ahead of Microsoft's next-gen console, including a prediction by Robert W Baird analyst Colin Sebastian in a note delivered to investors.

Other reports suggest that both the PS4 and Xbox 720 will be on store shelves late this year, and yesterday a leaked report alleged to have the specs for the Xbox 720.