The struggle to get a new console in 2021 is well documented, as the PS5 and Xbox Series X remain in short supply nearly a year after they first launched. The consoles still seem to sell out as quickly as they come in stock, with no signs of the problem improving any time soon. For gamers still trying to get their hands on a system, there’s a livestream that can help.
Over on YouTube, the channel DataLover is running a 24/7 stream showing stock updates for the PS5 and Xbox Series X at various retailers. The stream is fairly simple but could be an effective way for gamers to get their hands on a new console if they haven’t managed to do so yet. Essentially, the stream is just regularly pinging stores for their PS5 and Xbox Series X stock counts, then displaying that information for viewers.
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DataLover has run similar streams in the past, and the channel isn’t just limiting itself to the Xbox Series X and PS5, either. Over on Twitch, there’s another DataLover stream that’s tracking stock for both Nvidia’s and AMD’s newest graphics cards, which have similarly had stock issues in the time since they launched. For those that are PC-focused, that alternative is a good option.
The ongoing computer chip supply issues have fueled the systems’ scarcity. The problem, like many others, stems from the coronavirus pandemic, which has slowed global supply chains to a grinding halt. Manufacturers have predicted that the computer chip shortage could last into 2022, which would mean the PS5, Xbox Series X, and GPU shortages also persist until then – or even beyond depending on manufacturing times.
But the supply chain issues aren’t alone. Scalping remains a serious problem for new consoles – so severe, in fact, that some lawmakers have proposed anti-scalping legislation to protect the PS5 and Xbox Series X, among other electronics. And the dilemma doesn’t end there either. Nearly everything is being scalped these days, from the consoles to Pokemon cards.
Any advantage hopeful buyers can give themselves is a boon right now, so the DataLovers stream should be considered a useful tool to keep track of when things are in or out of stock. There are ways to increase one’s odds of getting a PS5 or Xbox Series X through certain memberships, but it can still take a decent bit of luck to snag one, even through those channels.
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