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[TECHNOLOGY] · United States · 100 sources

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Xbox announces Disc-to-Digital program for physical games

Microsoft has officially announced the ‘Disc-to-Digital’ program, a new feature designed to bridge the gap between physical media and digital ecosystems. Starting August 31, 2026, members of the Xbox Insider program will be able to test the feature, which allows users to convert supported Xbox One and Xbox Series X physical game discs into digital licenses.

To activate the feature, players must insert a supported disc into a console with a disc drive and launch the game. Once the digital entitlement is claimed, the game can be played without the disc, providing access to digital-only benefits such as Xbox Play Anywhere (enabling play on PC) and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Microsoft stated that thousands of titles will be compatible at launch, with more being added over time.

Crucially, the digital license remains tied to the specific physical disc. This mechanism is intended to protect the secondary market; if a user sells, lends, or gifts the physical disc, the associated digital license transfers to the new owner, revoking access for the previous user. The physical disc itself remains fully functional and can still be used for traditional play. This initiative is part of Microsoft’s broader commitment to game preservation as the industry moves toward a more digital-centric future.

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