Microsoft has unveiled a new disc-to-digital feature for physical Xbox games, allowing players to claim digital entitlements, and confirmed the price of the 25th anniversary Xbox Series X console.
The announcement follows Sony's decision to stop producing PlayStation game discs after 2027, which has sparked petitions and protests among players. Microsoft has faced its own challenges, including mass layoffs and uncertainty around its next-generation console, but has gained some positive attention with this feature, which was rumoured earlier this year.
How the disc-to-digital feature works
According to an Xbox Wire blog post, the feature lets players claim their 'digital entitlement' by inserting an Xbox One or Xbox Series X disc-based game into either console. The post explains: 'Once the entitlement is claimed, you can experience the benefits of digital, including Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming where supported, while your physical disc continues to work exactly as it always has.'
The wording is vague, leaving unclear whether players can play games with digital entitlement without the disc, or if the entitlement can be claimed twice using the same disc. Microsoft describes the feature as part of its 'broader commitment to game preservation', aiming to 'make it easier' for Xbox game libraries to 'move forward with players'.
Microsoft states that 'most' games will support the feature at launch, with more to be added over time. Xbox Insiders can test it starting Monday, August 31, with a general release date listed as 'coming soon'.
Xbox Series X25 price and release
Microsoft has confirmed the Xbox Series X25 Limited Edition console will cost $899.99 in the US, including a copy of Halo: Campaign Evolved. Pre-orders open globally on Thursday at 3pm BST. A UK price is yet to be confirmed, but the limited edition controller will cost £74.99. A prior leak suggested a European price of €899.99, implying a UK price around £750.
The console and controller launch worldwide on November 13, 2026.
