Xbox reportedly testing disc-less console and game digitization feature
Reports suggest Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox console may launch without a disc drive and could include a feature to digitize existing physical games, mirroring Sony’s plans for future PlayStation hardware.
Microsoft is said to be evaluating a next-generation Xbox console, codenamed Project Helix, that could be released without a disc drive. The speculation follows Sony’s recent confirmation that new PlayStation games will be digital-only from January 2028, hinting at a disc-less future console.
According to Windows Central, Xbox has been testing a feature that would allow players to convert physical game discs into digital copies, enabling play on disc-less hardware. The digitized games would remain usable, but access might be revoked if the original disc is transferred to another user, though the exact mechanics have not been detailed. The functionality is expected to cover select Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S titles, while older Xbox and Xbox 360 games may not be supported.
Both major console makers have previously introduced digital-only models to lower costs, and Nintendo recently launched Game-Key Cards, which are physical download-only versions of certain games.
