Microsoft reportedly testing disc-to-digital feature for Xbox

Microsoft is reportedly testing an Xbox disc-to-digital feature that will allow players to convert their physical game discs into digital downloads. Following a preliminary rumour back in May, a new report details how the programme is expected to operate ahead of an anticipated reveal later this year.

The original rumour from Windows Central mentioned that Xbox was working on such a feature but didn't provide many details. The new report from The Verge adds some information, stating that disc-to-digital will exclusively support Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S game discs. Original Xbox and Xbox 360 physical titles won't be supported. Players will insert a compatible disc into their console to generate a digital entitlement that remains locked to that specific physical copy.

Once a game is digitised, users gain full access to associated ecosystem perks like Xbox Play Anywhere or Xbox Cloud Gaming support, provided the game's digital version offers them. Testing feedback notes that compatibility for some Xbox One discs may vary depending on when and how they're manufactured.

So what happens to the disc once you've ‘digitized' your game? Well, the disc remains functional, but the digital game license is tied to the disc. That means that if you sell the physical copy, the digital entitlement will transfer along with it.

KitGuru says: If Microsoft drops the physical disc drive for its upcoming console, a functional disc-to-digital conversion path will be vital for preserving player collections.

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