Microsoft Converts Physical Game Discs to Digital Versions via New Program

Microsoft has launched its Xbox Disc-to-Digital program, allowing console owners to convert their physical game discs into digital versions. The program forms part of Microsoft's broader video game preservation strategy as it prepares for future console generations.

The conversion process works by inserting a compatible disc into an Xbox One or Xbox Series X console and launching the game, which unlocks a digital entitlement tied to the physical media. This means that if a user trades the disc with a friend or signs in under a different profile, the entitlement transfers accordingly to the current player holding the physical copy.

Once converted, players can access their games across various platforms via Xbox Cloud Gaming and play them natively on Windows PCs through Xbox Play Anywhere. The company will begin testing the feature with thousands of titles starting August 31, followed by a wider public rollout in the ensuing months.