I'd say yes. Depends on what exactly constitutes direct in relation to the Switch, but I can see hybrid like devices similar enough to Switch coming to market in the next couple of years. With MS having botched the XB1 new type of console launch, I would think that a streaming console would be as far as they push it for now. If that console succeeded, then maybe they try their hand at a hybrid. With the experience SNY has with mobile, handheld, and console, plus the momentum behind them right now, I'd be surprised if they turned a blind eye to that portion of the market. With entertainment growth like Google gaming expanding and the Mad Box looking to take a shot at console gaming, It's hard not to imagine Switch having some kind of direct competition in the not so distant future.

If you think that Sony or Microsoft are going to create a handheld console that ships with a dock to connect it to a TV, then no, that's not happening.

its just not possible. when you really stop to examine hardware trends, it feels like Nintendo has been playing the long game this whole time. The Wii barely improved upon the GameCube's hardware, and the Wii U then was barely above the 7th gen consoles. Meanwhile the PS4 and Xbox One soared above Nintendo in terms of performance power. now enter the Switch - it is Nintendo's most powerful console ever, and yet it still is not even at the same performance level as gen 8. in order for Sony and Microsoft to compete with it, they would have to make an extremely expensive powerhouse mobile console, or scale back on hardware and move the industry back a few steps. neither would be profitable.

Depends on what OP means by "direct competitor" because it's probably a lot easier than what he thinks ...

All Sony or Microsoft would have to do is officially support "remote play" functionality from home consoles through streaming on Android/iOS devices with a peripheral controller and the Switch would already face some pressure ... (basically a personal cloud gaming machine)

Sure portable play with this method will need an internet connection but there are other benefits that comes with it too such as a smaller form factor (ultra portables like smartphones with add-on peripherals), far longer battery life and a higher end experience ... (best of all it's been proven technology too so it works in real life)

You forgot one thing: To play vita you need a memory card require, mean you have to spend ~$300 for vita, not $250 

Can't wait to spend ~$1000 to get it

Yeah, just like Sony couldn’t take the heat and keep competing when it came to portables...

TBH there is no need. Sony is doing well why change the formula. Love what they done with the PS4 plus they got the 3rd party backing so they can go all out and showcase powerful consoles with great graphics. A handheld mode would limit that.

Who cares since most people own smartphones anyways ? Home consoles practically require TV displays and no one makes a big deal about it ... 

Not many is gonna give a shit if you have to use an app with internet connection to get portable play ... 

Insecure much?