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Xbox disc-to-digital program. Microsoft has extended the disc-to-digital program to all Xbox Series X and Xbox One users, enabling them to obtain a digital license for a supported physical game by simply inserting the disc into the console while connected to their Xbox account.
The feature was initially available to a limited group of Xbox Insider users, who get early access to updates. Now, Microsoft is making it accessible to a broader base of gamers.
Xbox disc-to-digital program: why it matters
It is important to note that the catalog of supported games depends on agreements with individual publishers, which must opt in to the program. Among the companies that have confirmed their participation are Ubisoft and Sega.
Currently, digital licenses can only be obtained for Xbox One and Xbox Series X games. Xbox 360 titles are not included in this initiative.
When a supported disc is inserted, the console displays a confirmation message informing the user that the digital license has been linked to their account. This license may also unlock additional features such as Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming, when available for the specific title.
What changes and what are the effects
Microsoft clarifies that the obtained digital license is not perpetual. If another user inserts the same disc into their console and links it to their own Xbox account, the previous holder will lose access to the digital license associated with that physical media. Similar to game key cards for Nintendo Switch 2, the disc continues to represent the element that determines who can hold the digital license at any given time.
This is therefore not a permanent conversion of the physical game into a digital copy independent from the original media. Additionally, Microsoft has clarified that in the case of physical editions that include additional content directly on the disc (and not via a separate code), some of this content may be included in the disc-to-digital license.
Source and further reading on Xbox disc-to-digital program: original article.
* Content created with the assistance of artificial intelligence systems.