Xbox is testing a new feature that will let players claim digital entitlements for supported physical games, giving disc owners access to digital features across the Xbox ecosystem. The feature will begin testing with Xbox Insiders on August 31.
Microsoft says the move is part of its broader focus on game preservation and making it easier for players to carry their existing libraries forward as hardware and distribution methods change.
The new system will initially support most Xbox One and Xbox Series X disc-based games. To claim a digital entitlement, players need to insert a supported game disc into an Xbox One or Xbox Series X console and launch the game.
Once the entitlement has been claimed, players can access supported digital features such as Xbox Play Anywhere and Xbox Cloud Gaming. The physical disc will continue to function as it did previously.
Xbox says the programme will launch with thousands of supported titles, although not every game will be included initially. Microsoft plans to expand the selection over time.
Xbox Vice President of Next Generation Jason Ronald said the feature is intended to give players more flexibility when accessing games they already own. The company also views the initiative as part of its effort to preserve access to games as technology and distribution platforms evolve.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma also highlighted the preservation aspect of the feature, saying that physical game libraries represent years of memories and experiences for players. She confirmed that Xbox Insiders will begin testing the ability to unlock digital entitlements for supported physical games next week.
