- Microsoft's disc-to-digital feature for Xbox consoles will reportedly release this month
- The Verge reports that the feature will allow developers to bring their Xbox 360 games to "Xbox PCs", handheld devices, and "next-gen Xbox devices" like Project Helix
- A 2027-2028 "gradual" rollout is expected "across next-gen devices"
Microsoft's rumored disc-to-digital feature, which would allow players to digitize their existing physical Xbox game library, will reportedly roll out this month and be available for Project Helix.
That's according to a leaked document obtained by The Verge, which appears to show a roadmap of features scheduled for release over the next few months, into next year, and into 2028.
Last month, sources familiar with Microsoft's plans claimed the company was working on a way for Xbox users to digitize their physical games. It was reported that the feature would allow users to insert a compatible disc, install, and play the game, granting them a digital entitlement on their account.
The feature would work with Xbox One and Xbox Series X discs, not with Xbox 360 or original Xbox consoles. However, it was suggested that some Xbox One discs might not work.
The Verge now reports that Microsoft will allow developers to bring their Xbox 360 games not just to Xbox consoles, but "Xbox PCs", handheld devices, and "next-gen Xbox devices" like Project Helix.
Developers can opt in to making their old-gen titles backward compatible, giving them control over prices and whether they would be available on Game Pass.
it looks like devs won’t have to do any engineering work to get Xbox 360 and Xbox games on PC. Microsoft’s Xbox PC emulator handles it all 👍 https://t.co/3veMXdaJb2 pic.twitter.com/daFEomcVUaAugust 3, 2026
As per the roadmap, the feature is scheduled for a "gradual" rollout between 2027 and 2028 "across next-gen devices," while the "full launch" of original Xbox games on PC via Game Pass or the Xbox Store is set for October 2026.
The outlet also said a public beta for the disc-to-digital program was set for July, with general availability for all Xbox One and Series X owners slated for August. It's understood that Microsoft originally planned to test the feature with Xbox Insiders last month, but the beta was delayed, and now it’s unclear if the August general release is still on course.
Elsewhere, Xbox Series X and Series S prices have increased once again in the UK. The Xbox Series X 1TB All-Digital version will now cost £619.99, up from £449.99, while the disc edition will go up from £499.99 to £669.99.
