Microsoft Lets Xbox Players Claim Digital Entitlements From Physical Discs
The move contrasts with Sony's plan to end physical disc production for new PlayStation games in January 2028, keeping physical media viable on Xbox while expanding digital access.
Reporting from 1 source: Anime News Network.
Microsoft announced a feature allowing players to claim digital entitlements for physical Xbox One and Xbox Series X games. Starting August 31, Xbox Insiders can insert a supported disc to download and play the game digitally, including Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming support, without the disc.
Microsoft's new feature lets players insert a supported physical disc into an Xbox One or Xbox Series X to claim a digital entitlement, enabling downloads and play without the disc. The company says most discs will support the feature, starting with thousands of titles and expanding over time.
The announcement follows Sony's July 1 decision to end physical disc production for all new PlayStation games starting January 2028, making new releases digital only. Microsoft's approach keeps discs functional while offering digital convenience, a notable divergence in console strategy.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 1 cited source below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.