Microsoft works on a Disc-less system & Disc-to-Digital program

Microsoft insider website Thurrott has broken the news that the tech giant is reportedly working on an Xbox console which is doing away with physical disc altogether. Thurrott further claims that MS plans to roll out a game exchange program with various retailers where users can exchange their physical copies in favor of digital codes.

Thurrott previously reported on the next-gen family of Xbox consoles code-named Scarlett. According to credible insider sources, Scarlett will consist of a wide family of consoles aiming to have an affordable entry into the Xbox ecosystem for users of a broad income. Most notably is a bare bones streaming Xbox Scarlett device which will use the Cloud gaming as a means to enjoy games. These next-gen consoles are expected to arrive 2020.

Today’s big news however is a more traditional console. Albeit with a pretty major feature, or rather the absence of it. According to sources, Microsoft is planning to release a new Xbox One console next year. This new SKU will be entirely focused on digital consumption and will forgo a disc drive entirely. Instead, users will be able to purchase games solely digitally.

No question, digital games sales are increasing at a breakneck speed and are only going to become more prevalent in the future. So, it makes sense to offer an option for users who aren’t interested in the hassle of buying physical games. More interestingly than convenience, the price of such a disc-less console is naturally going to be much cheaper than its disc-based brethren.

Thurrott states that Microsoft is aiming for a price reduction of up to $100. That’s massive savings for any customer and could lead to an Xbox One console costing only $200 or even less.

What about users who already own a library of physical games? Microsoft has thought about them as well. Reportedly, a Disc-to-Digital program by Microsoft in partnership with retailers will enable owners of physical Xbox One games to exchange their disc-based games in return for digital codes of the same game. A massive incentive for any gamer looking for the cheapest entry into the Xbox One ecosystem.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that physical games are going extinct. Microsoft will continue to support those going to the future with disc-based consoles. Not every region has stable and uncapped broadband internet, so those systems will likely never fully vanish. But having more and cheaper options is always welcome.