Microsoft is planning to launch a mechanism to transfer games from physical discs to digital licenses, allowing players to preserve their libraries when moving to disc-less consoles, according to infohub.kz.
According to internal Microsoft documents, the new system will allow disc owners to obtain digital licenses for their games. To convert, users will need to insert a compatible disc into an Xbox console with a disc drive, after which the linked license will be activated on their Microsoft account. The resulting copy can be played on various devices in the Xbox ecosystem, including PCs and portable consoles. If the disc is given to someone else, the digital right automatically transfers to the new owner.
In parallel, Microsoft is preparing a large-scale project to bring games from the original Xbox and Xbox 360 to PC and a future console codenamed Project Helix. According to The Verge, the launch of this program is scheduled between 2027 and 2028. Game developers will retain control over pricing and adding titles to Game Pass. The initiative aims to ease players' inevitable transition to a fully digital future.